Why Choose Dental Bridges Over Implants
Missing teeth are unattractive and also impair your dental structure. How? When you leave the gaps unfilled, they will cause the surrounding teeth to shift to the available spaces, weakening them. Therefore, it is important to replace these teeth in advance to avoid deterioration of the dental structure. Fortunately, we offer restorative dental treatments, such as dental bridges and implants.
The debate on which restorative treatment is suitable still rages on. Some people would prefer implants and other bridges. In this post, we highlight the reasons for choosing bridges over implants.
1.Bridges are Non-invasive
Bridges are pontics or false teeth that are supported by two dental crowns. The process of getting the bridges is less invasive than the implants. Dental implants are surgically fixed in the bone to anchor the artificial teeth. Teeth bridges, on the other hand, do not require a surgical procedure and are done in three phases.
- Phase one: dental examination and planning
A comprehensive dental assessment is done to check for any signs of bone loss or decay. Next, we will choose a suitable dental bridge based on the location of the missing teeth and the surrounding teeth’ condition. The dentist will discuss the dental bridge procedure, what to expect and the risks involved, if any.
- Phase two: teeth preparation
Before the bridges are fixed, the dentist will have to reshape your enamel to make room for dental crowns. This process is irreversible, and that’s why you need to consult our dentist in Tucker, GA.
Your gums are numbed before the enamel is reshaped. The size of the enamel to be trimmed will depend on the thickness of the dental crowns.
Once the teeth are reshaped, an impression is taken to the lab to make the permanent bridges. It may take about three weeks to get them back, but the dentist will give you temporary bridges to shield your teeth from sensitivity.
- Phase three: Fixing the bridges
The dentist will use a special block of cement to fix the bridges. The bridges are then assessed and adjusted to the perfect fit.
A follow up dental appointment may be scheduled to assess how the bridges.
2.Takes Less Time
Dental implants take a few months to be fixed, depending on the type of surgery done. On the other hand, dental bridges need three dental visits spread over a three or four-week period.
Also, because it is not a surgical procedure, the recovery time is fast. You might feel discomfort when the bridges are fixed, but this will clear in a few hours.
3.Anyone Can Benefit from Bridges
Because dental bridges are non-surgical, they can benefit anyone. For the dental bridges to be fixed, you need to have sufficient supporting bone. If you lack the required amount, the dentist may recommend a bone graft (another surgical procedure) to rebuild the bone. This procedure may lengthen the treatment time by 12 months.
However, while bone support may not be an issue with the bridges, you need to have healthy teeth and gums for the bridges to be fixed.
4.Bridges are Affordable
The cost of getting the dental bridges will depend on the type of bridge used and where you get the bridges. At times, Dental insurance may cover a percentage of the cost of the bridges based on your insurance plan.
What Are the Types of Bridges?
Teeth bridges are available in three types:
- Traditional bridges are the commonly used type, and they consist of two dental crowns fixed on the adjacent teeth.
- Cantilever bridges also use dental crowns but require only one tooth for support. They are a bit weak and suitable for front teeth.
- Maryland bonded bridges use a metal framework instead of dental crowns.
How Long do The Bridges Last?
Dental bridges are long-lasting; you can stay for 10 to 15 years with proper care. But you will still need them replaced after some time.
Schedule an Appointment
Dental bridges are effective for closing the gaps and replacing the teeth. Visit Smiles 2 You Dental Center for more information on dental bridges and how they differ from implants.