Dental implants and bridges are effective treatments for restoring missing teeth and improving oral health. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth, while dental bridges are artificial teeth that are anchored in place using adjacent healthy teeth.
Both options offer improved appearance, increased comfort and confidence, and a restored ability to speak and eat normally.
What You Need to Know About Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of biocompatible titanium that are surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. They look and function just like a normal tooth, and because the implant is surgically placed into the jawbone, it stimulates bone growth, helping you maintain your youthful appearance.
A dental implant has a survival rate of 94% at 15 years and can last a lifetime, depending on your oral and overall health. But the dental crown will need to be replaced every 15-20 years due to wear and tear.
Dental Implant Procedure
The implant placement procedure is done under local anesthesia and involves the placement of the implant into the jawbone, followed by a healing period. Once the site has healed, your dentist reopens the wound to add an abutment that connects the dental crown to the dental implant. This minor surgery takes about two weeks to heal before your restoration is attached.
Dental Implant Maintenance
Dental implants require regular cleaning and maintenance, just like natural teeth, to ensure long-term success.
Dental Implant Cost
Dental implants are often more expensive than other tooth replacement options, but they offer a longer-lasting and natural-looking solution making them worth the investment. Ask us about Sunbit Financing, which allows you to revitalize your smile and pay for your treatment over time.
What You Need to Know About Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are artificial teeth anchored in place using adjacent healthy teeth and remain a popular solution for missing teeth.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
Dental bridges replace missing teeth, improving your appearance, oral function, and self-confidence.
Dental Bridge Procedure
Getting a dental bridge involves preparing the adjacent teeth and taking impressions for the dental crowns and the custom-made bridge. You will be fitted with a temporary bridge while you wait for your permanent one to be fabricated.
At your follow-up appointment, the adjacent teeth are fitted with a dental crown and cemented to the false tooth that fills the gap forming a bridge.
Dental Bridge Maintenance
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are necessary to maintain the health of both the bridge and surrounding teeth. Your dentist may recommend interproximal brushes or a Waterpik to clean underneath your bridge.
The average lifespan of a dental bridge is roughly ten years, but it can last longer with a good at-home oral hygiene routine and regular dental checkups.
Dental Bridge Cost
Dental bridges are typically less expensive than dental implants, but they need to be replaced approximately every 10 years, which increases their long-term cost. We happily accept all PPO insurance and partner with CareCredit® so you can take care of your dental needs and maintain your million-dollar smile.
How to Decide which Option is Best for Your Smile
If you are still trying to decide which option is best for you, the St. John Smiles dental team can help. With our expertise in dentistry and commitment to patient satisfaction, we can provide a personalized evaluation and help you choose the best tooth replacement option for your smile.
Book an appointment to learn more about your options and start your journey to a healthier, happier smile.