The benefits of implants over dental bridges.

Both dental implants and bridges are excellent treatment solutions to replace missing teeth and they both have advantages to the patient. However the question is asked time and time again when a dentist has to produce the best treatment plan for their patient, should they use dental implants or use a dental bridge?

Dental implants are more visually attractive

Dental implants generally look better and are easier to clean than a bridge. Gums can recede around a bridge, leaving a visible defect when the metal base or collar of the bridge becomes exposed. Resorbed(deteriorated) bone beneath the bridge can lead to an unattractive smile. For that reason a dental implant generally looks better than a bridge.

Dental Implants provide a long-term cost effective restorative treatment

Dental implants often last a persons entire life with proper maintenance. Compare this to bridges and dentures which after ten years have a high probability of need for replacement. Implants may actually seem more expensive in the short run, however due to their durability, maintainability, and independence of the teeth surrounding it, they are actually more cost effective. They require less maintenance than ordinary bridges – which can develop caries also known as tooth decay, leading to the replacement of the bridge. However, since dental implants are made of titanium they do not develop caries.

Implants can replace many adjacent missing teeth

Dental implants are implicated when a series of lost teeth including posterior molars must be replaced and there are no surrounding anchor teeth. A standard bridge will normally require healthy and sound surrounding teeth for its long-term use. In many ways, the dental implant can be considered to be similar to the healthy root of a tooth. Implants can support one particular artificial tooth or crown, a bridge or denture and can be used in combination with several implants to form the base for a full mouth bridge reconstruction.

Dental Implants encourage bone growth & preserve facial structure

Dental implants stimulate healthy bone growth and preserve oral health contrary to conventional bridges due to the exercising of the jaw bone and constant biting action. When teeth are lost the surrounding bone begins to shrink. Dental implants maintain the structure and shape of the jaw bone. Most implants preserve the underlying jawbone and for that reason preserve the overlying facial structures, preventing the shape and facial structures from collapsing – delaying one of the signs of aging.

Dental implants are easier to maintain & do not foster decay or gum disease

Dental implants are easier to maintain in most cases. You can floss around them without a bridge threader or other specialized tools. With a dental bridge, there may be a higher risk of problems down the road. If, for example, there is new decay around one of the surrounding teeth, you might need a complete new bridge instead of just having to repair the one tooth.

After considering a bridge vs dental implants and taking all the factors into account – it is clear the dental implants solution is preferable. Even though the initial price is higher, in the long run it is actually a more cost effective alternative, given that they look better, preserve bone structure, are stronger and more durable, and are more resistant to decay. However, you should consider a conventional bridge if your bone structure is lacking and do not want to undergo bonegrafting. Contact the Scott Arms Dental Practice today on 0121 357 5000 to book a free implant assessment and find out exactly how dental implants can help you.