Tooth loss has countless effects on your oral health and overall quality of life. And, since there are multiple causes such as gum disease, genetics, accidents, and poor oral hygiene, it’s no wonder that an estimated 178 million Americans have lost at least one tooth! The good news is that there are more replacement options than ever before, including traditional options like bridges and relatively newer options like dental implants in Plano. In this blog, you’ll read about the differences between them and find out why implants are often a better choice. Learn more below!
What Makes Implants Different?
Implants do one thing that dental bridges don’t: They replace the roots of missing teeth. This is important for a couple of reasons: First, it tricks your body into thinking that a tooth is still present, so your jawbone won’t shrink or change shape over time.
Second, a root is what gives a tooth its chewing power, so implants can provide unmatched stability, strength, and longevity.
Dental implants can be used for people who have lost one tooth or even all their teeth, but they’re particularly ideal when just one tooth is missing.
Why Are Implants Usually More Successful Than a Bridge?
Dental bridges have a couple of drawbacks. First, they require grinding down the two healthy teeth on either side of a missing space to serve as anchors for the bridge.
Also, bridges only last an average of 10-15 years and can be difficult to clean, increasing the risk for cavities on the anchor teeth. They also don’t prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Implants don’t involve any of these drawbacks and provide many advantages, including:
- They look, feel and function more like your own teeth than a bridge will.
- Since you’ll have better chewing strength, you can eat hard, crunchy, or tough foods more easily.
- Implants can last many decades with basic care and maintenance, which is much longer than a bridge.
Which One Is Right For You?
Each person has unique circumstances, including their medical and dental history, age, lifestyle, goals, and budget. While implants are the best choice in most cases, some patients may actually benefit more from a dental bridge in Plano or even a denture.
That’s why it’s important to start with a consultation so you can discuss the pros and cons of each choice with a dentist.
Regardless of whether a bridge or implants are right for you, you’ll soon be on your way to a restored smile and great oral health for many years!
About the Author
Dr. Anita Naik Madhav has 25 years of experience as a dentist and knows that choosing a tooth replacement option can be overwhelming. She always takes the time to explain the risks and benefits of each choice to help her patients make the best decision for their oral health. If you have any questions about a bridge or dental implants in Plano, she can be reached via her website.
