A healthy human being has 32 teeth, and due to different reasons, some of these teeth will encounter problems over time. Some of these reasons include accidents, medical issues and not maintaining proper dental hygiene.

The consequences of these issues aren’t great, and they can cause several issues that will interfere with normal activities such as eating, speaking and smiling. Additionally, if you don’t replace the missing teeth, the remaining ones will move closer into the empty space, leading to changes in the jawline and facial structure.

In this blog post, we will explain two procedures that aim to replace missing teeth: dental implants and dental bridges. Which one will be the best choice for you? Continue reading to find out more.

Why Replace A Missing Tooth?

When we miss a tooth and don’t replace it at the right time, a lot of issues will arise. This does not only include the appearance but also changes in the jawbone and the alignment of the teeth. Additionally, missing a tooth will also make it difficult for you to eat and speak properly.

While eating, we apply our teeth. This pressure is usually distributed heavenly into the mouth and is transferred into the tooth root and jawbone. This is known as stimulation of the jawbone.

If we want strong bone tissue that helps keep the teeth in place, this pressure is necessary. Without it the jawbone will begin to weaken and potentially lose the ability to hold the tooth. Additionally, this will cause changes even in the shape of the face.

Dental Implants And Bridges For Replacing Missing Teeth

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, we offer two main procedures which are known for their effectiveness and long lasting results: dental implants and dental bridges.

While both of these procedures aim to achieve the same results, their techniques are quite different. Furthermore we will explain in more detail each procedure, including their pros and cons to help you make the best choice between the two. 

What Is A Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a small device consisting of two or three teeth that cover the missing teeth by holding onto the healthy teeth located nearby. They are composed of different materials and can help replace one or more missing teeth at the same time.

The procedure of replacing missing teeth with dental bridges usually takes two dental appointments. During the first one, the dentist will need to prepare the adjacent teeth that will hold the dental bridge in place. This includes the removal of a small amount of enamel to make enough room in the mouth for the bridge. 

Next, the dentist will need to take impressions of the mouth and teeth and send them to the dental lab, where the dental bridge will be designed. This bridge will be custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of the rest of the teeth so it blends seamlessly. 

Once the dental bridge is ready, the patient will need to return to the clinic for the final placement. The dentist will ensure that the bridge fits perfectly before permanently cementing it into place.

Pros Of A Dental Bridge

Cost effective

Dental bridges are a commonly requested dental procedure due to their many benefits. One of these benefits is that they are cost-effective. Unlike other dental treatments, bridges are less expensive and last for a very long time. 

It does not require bone grafting

Not having enough jawbone to support dental implants is common for many individuals. If the patient has had a missing tooth for a long time, it is very common for the jawbone to become weaker and to restore it, the dentists will recommend bone grafting. 

This surgical procedure involves the placement of a bone fragment under the gums to regenerate the bone so it serves as an anchoring point for the dental implants. However, if you choose dental bridges, this procedure will be avoided. 

Less time-consuming

The procedure for dental bridges is short, and it takes about 2 dental visits which is much shorter than dental implants. This makes them an ideal choice for patients who don’t have that much time or don’t want to wait for their tooth restoration. 

Cons Of A Dental Bridge

Bridges don’t correct bone loss

Just like any dental procedure, bridges also have their cons, and one of them is that they don’t correct bone loss. Since the bridges only replace the surface of the teeth, not the roots, they won’t treat bone loss.

Bridges don’t last long

The normal life span for dental bridges will be 10-15 years; however, with proper maintenance, they can even last longer. But compared to dental implants, there is a big difference. 

Some types of bridges can cause damage

Since dental bridges use adjacent teeth as anchoring points, they will damage them. This damage will need to be treated later on if the dentist decides to replace the bridge with a dental implant. 

They require alterations to healthy teeth

As we mentioned before, the procedure of dental bridges involves alterations to the healthy teeth located nearby. These alterations include the removal of a small amount of enamel, which will eventually weaken the teeth. 

Qu'est-ce qu'un implant dentaire ?

Dental implants are an advanced dental technique that aims to replace missing teeth. Unlike other treatments, implants will also replace the missing root, which will be a huge benefit to your overall health.

These dental implants are composed of a metal post, abutment and the crown. The metal post will replace the missing tooth root and will be placed inside the jawbone. The abutment will serve as a connector, and the crown will replace the surface of the teeth.

Once the implant is placed into the jawbone, it will take about 6 months for them to fuse together. This process is also known as osseointegration.

After the fusing process is over, a custom dental crown will be attached to the dental implants. If properly taken care of, the crown will last for many years. 

If the patient has several missing teeth in a row. The dentist might recommend a fixed partial denture, which includes a dental implant crown that holds several artificial teeth.

‍Pros Of Dental Implants

Long-lasting

Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime, however, the crown placed on top might need to be changed after 15 years or longer. This procedure has a high success rate of about 98%, making it the ideal choice for those who want a permanent replacement. 

To keep the dental implants healthy for as long as possible, maintenance is very important. This includes brushing and flossing the teeth daily, just as you normally would with your real teeth. 

Maintain a Natural Looking Appearance

Dental implants are designed to perfectly mimic the shape and size of the tooth they are replacing. Once the procedure is done, they will function and look the same as the other teeth. 

Easier maintenance

Unlike dentures for example, dental implants are easier to maintain. The only thing you need to do is to brush and floss your teeth regularly and visit the dentist twice a year. Additionally, you won’t need to remove them every night or use dental adhesive to keep them in place. 

Cost-Effective Treatment

While dental implants cost more than other replacement devices, in the long run, they will turn out to be more cost-effective. Unlike other treatments that need to be replaced every few years, dental implants have no such requirements as they will last a lifetime, thereby resulting in cost savings. 

You can get as many teeth replaced as you want

Dental implants are the best way of replacing missing teeth, be it one tooth or more at the same time. If you have several missing teeth or a full arch, there are different techniques that will help you replace them all without the need for an implant in each tooth.

Cons Of Dental Implants

Time-Consuming

For dental implants, you need to go to the doctor more than once. The first visit is the consultation. It is followed by the dental checkup, surgery, the healing phase, and therapeutic visits. The whole process could take up to six months.

High Upfront Cost

The costs up front for dental implant surgery are higher than for dentures or alternative methods to replace missing teeth. However, the long-lasting quality after the high price means a lot.

You’ll Need Enough Bone to Support Them

Bone loss is a common occurrence for people who have lost their teeth. If you only need a single tooth implant, a bone grafting procedure will be recommended. This procedure takes time, and it prolongs the process of getting your new tooth. 

There’s a Chance The Restoration On Top Can Wear Out

Dental implants consist of a fixed restoration that will be placed on top. Usually, this restoration is a crown or a bridge, which will deteriorate over time and need to be replaced. This happens after a year or every ten years. The implant post, on the other hand, will last a lifetime in most cases. 

Dental Implant vs. Bridge: Procedure

Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure will start with an initial consultation at the dental clinic. During this consultation, the dentist will plan the procedure steps and decide on the right implant method.

X-rays or CT scans will also be conducted to examine the location of the dental implants. This will also help determine the quality and quantity of the jawbone and if additional procedures such as bone grafting, are necessary. 

Once the dentist determines the right technique, you will need to get ready for the dental implant procedure, which will start with the administration of local anesthesia. 

During the implant procedure, the dentist will need to make small incisions into the gum line so they can have clear access to the jawbone area. After that, a small drilling device will be used to make space for the implant. Once the implant is inserted, a small cap will be placed on top, and the gums will be stitched up.

For the implant to properly integrate into the jawbone, it will take about 6 months. This process is known as osseointegration, and it is very important for the success of the procedure. 

Once the implant has fully integrated with the jawbone, an abutment is attached to the dental implant, serving as a connector for the prosthetic teeth. The dentist will make an impression of the abutment in the mouth, and the crown will be custom-designed to fit properly into the mouth. 

Dental Bridges Procedure

The dental bridge procedure is simpler and faster than the dental implant procedure.

Bridges will usually be composed of metal, porcelain or a combination of the two. First the dentist will need to examine the mouth and take dental imaging of the teeth and mouth. To prepare the mouth for the dental bridge, alterations of the two healthy nearby teeth will be necessary.

Once the necessary changes are made a mould of the mouth will be taken to design the bridge. While you wait for the temporary one to be ready, you will need to wear a permanent bridge. 

The permanent bridge will take bout 3-5 days to be designed, and once it is ready, it will be put in place and attached to the surrounding healthy teeth with dental cement.

Tooth Implant Vs Bridge: Treatment Length

The length of dental implant treatment will depend on the type of implants you choose. However, most of the time, the whole procedure from beginning to end will take 6 months and, in some cases, even longer.

Dental bridges, on the other hand, will only take a week. The process will be quicker and you will just need to visit the dentist twice. 

Dental Implants Vs. Bridges: Cost

When considering the cost, it’s important to look at both short-term and long-term benefits. While dental implants have a higher initial cost compared to dental bridges, they are designed to last a lifetime, making them a worthwhile investment. Bridges, on the other hand, are less expensive upfront but typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.

Dental Implants Vs Bridges: Health Benefits

Both dental bridges and dental implants are effective options for replacing missing teeth, but in terms of health benefits, dental implants are the superior choice. They help prevent further tooth loss, protect against jawbone deterioration, improve speech, and maintain the integrity of surrounding teeth.

Dental Implant Vs. Bridge: Which Is Right For You?

When deciding between dental implants and bridges, it is important to consider several factors, such as the number of teeth that need to be replaced, the treatment process, the cost and your willingness to go through with surgery or not. Whatever you decide, both treatments will be beneficial for tooth loss.