When it comes to addressing dental-implants-could-help-your-dental-health/” title=”Learn How Dental Implants Could Help Your Dental Health”>missing teeth, dental implants and bridges are two popular options that offer both functional and aesthetic benefits. While both treatments serve the same purpose, they vary in terms of procedure, longevity, and overall advantages. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the comparison between dental implants and bridges to assist you in making an informed decision regarding your dental needs.
Exploring Dental Implants
Dental implants serve as artificial tooth roots crafted from biocompatible materials such as titanium. These implants are strategically placed into the jawbone through a surgical procedure, where they gradually fuse with the bone, creating a stable foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or denture.
The Process of Dental Implants
The journey of obtaining dental implants involves several key steps:
- Initial Evaluation: Your dentist will assess your oral health and bone density to determine your candidacy for implants.
- Surgical Insertion: The implant is surgically embedded into the jawbone under local anesthesia.
- Integration Phase: Over a few months, the implant merges with the jawbone, establishing a sturdy base.
- Abutment Attachment: An abutment is affixed to the implant, linking it to the replacement tooth.
- Final Restoration: A tailor-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the abutment to complete the process.
Advantages of Dental Implants
- Longevity and Resilience: With proper maintenance, dental implants can endure a lifetime.
- Natural Look: Implants closely resemble natural teeth in appearance and feel.
- Jawbone Preservation: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing deterioration.
- No Impact on Surrounding Teeth: Adjacent teeth remain unaffected by implants, eliminating the need for alteration.
Exploring Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are fixed prosthetic devices designed to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring to neighboring natural teeth or dental implants. Typically, a bridge comprises artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth.
The Process of Dental Bridges
The journey of acquiring a dental bridge involves the following stages:
- Initial Assessment: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and recommend the most suitable type of bridge.
- Tooth Preparation: Adjacent teeth are reshaped to accommodate the supporting crowns for the bridge.
- Impressions: Impressions of your teeth are taken to craft a personalized bridge.
