Dental Implants vs. Partial or Bridge

Posted on Mar 05, 2014 by William J. Claiborne, DDS MS

In my specialty, I’ve been taught and trained to do everything possible to help people keep their natural teeth. This is why many dentists refer patients with gum disease to our office. Periodontists are the ‘experts’ on restoring oral wellness and saving as many natural teeth as possible.

In some situations, however, a natural tooth cannot be saved. Or, an individual may already be missing two or more teeth in one area. For many years, their only choices for replacing these teeth would have been a partial or crown-&-bridge combination.

Fortunately, Dental Implants have been developed and perfected as “the next best thing to your natural teeth.” Since my training in periodontics  included the diagnosis and placement of Dental Implants, I’m particularly aware of their superiority.

Although Dental Implants cost more upfront, they are a far better investment for several reasons. Dental Implants do not require the support of existing, natural teeth. Additionally, they recreate the presence of tooth roots in the jaw bone. This helps prevent bone loss that occurs when natural teeth are missing.

The added pressure from anchoring a bridge or partial, can fracture the teeth supporting crowns. When this occurs, a new crown is needed or removal of yet another natural tooth. And, there is more expense and time in treatment for you as well.

Dental Implants are designed to last a lifetime. They help to preserve jaw bone mass and do not require adjacent teeth for support. They also restore biting and chewing stability.

I am very proud of our success rate with implant patients but prouder of those who opted for this “one and done” version of tooth replacement. Smile your best, for a lifetime! Call (828) 274-9440 for a consultation to begin.