05 Jun Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Which Is Best for Stillwater Patients?
Tooth loss can affect your self-confidence and oral health, and understanding the differences between dental implants and bridges can be confusing. Many patients want to know what the best tooth replacement option is for their specific situation. We’ve put together an in-depth comparison of dental implants vs. bridges in Stillwater, OK. This concise guide helps you make the right decision.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a permanent fix for a missing tooth. Your oral surgeon will surgically implant a titanium post into your jawbone as a substitute for the tooth’s root. Once the area has healed, a custom-made crown is secured onto the post. Patients who visit our oral surgeon in Stillwater, OK, choose implants for their natural look and durability.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
Adjacent teeth help the dental bridge do its job by providing support. This option is ideal if the patient has either a single missing tooth or interspersed teeth with natural teeth surrounding the gaps.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
It’s important to understand the pros and cons of dental bridges to help you choose between dental implants and bridges.
Advantages of Dental Bridges
- Dental bridges are budget-friendly, with lower upfront costs.
- There is no recovery period or extended treatments needed, with only a few weeks for technicians to create your bridge.
- Dental bridges require no surgery or anesthesia, which means no downtime or missed work.
Disadvantages of Dental Bridges
- The neighboring teeth may need reshaping to accommodate the new bridge.
- Dental bridges do not have a long lifespan, needing to be replaced in 10 to 15 years.
- Missing teeth can create jawbone loss, and the addition of a dental bridge will not stop the deterioration of the bone.
Implants vs. Bridges: Primary Contrasts
A common question is what lasts longer: a bridge or an implant? When it comes to lifespan, the difference is clear. Implants can last a lifetime, but bridges wear out, change shape, and need replacement after 10 to 15 years. The cost of a dental bridge vs. implants in Oklahoma can be high, with implants costing more. Despite the higher cost of the implants, they can save you more money in the long term due to their longevity. Implants provide a more natural smile, appearance, and feel than a bridge, and they preserve bone density and structure.
Making the choice between dental implants and a bridge can hinge on your financial situation, the current state of your oral health and bone structure, and your future plans for your smile. If you are searching for the best implant dentist in Stillwater, OK, you’ve come to the right place. Call us today to schedule your consultation and find out if implants or a bridge is the best choice for you.