When you have gaps in your smile, it’s perfectly natural to avoid being in pictures or covering your mouth when you talk; at Bryant Family Dentistry, we understand how self-conscious you might feel, and we want to help.
Our dental office offers dental implants and bridges to restore your smile’s health and functionality, but which one is right for you moving forward?
Dental Implants vs. Bridges: How They Compare
Dental implants and bridges are both common restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth.
Here’s what you need to know about each of them to make an informed decision:
Dental Implants
- A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into your jawbone.
- Once it heals, a dental crown, bridge, or denture is added to complete the procedure.
- They take several months to fuse with your jawbone. This process is known as osseointegration.
- With proper care, implants can last a lifetime; they are extremely durable and look like your natural teeth.
- Implants do not require adjacent teeth for support. They can replace a single tooth or a complete arch.
- They stimulate your jawbone, keeping it from deteriorating over time.
- Dental implants can be more expensive than other restorations, but they’re a fantastic long-term investment.
Dental Bridges
- A dental bridge is one or more prosthetic teeth anchored by dental crowns on both sides.
- They require healthy teeth on both sides for support, and some of your tooth is removed to hold the dental crowns.
- Bridges don’t stimulate your jawbone like an implant or your natural tooth’s roots, so you could experience jawbone deterioration over time.
- The treatment timeline for a dental bridge is typically only a few weeks.
- Dental bridges may be more affordable, but they don’t last as long as implants.
Trying to Decide Which Restoration Fits Your Smile?
If you live in Knoxville or the surrounding area, we’d love to customize a treatment plan suited to your smile goals and budget! At Bryant Family Dentistry, our goal is to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile you’ll be proud to show others.
To get started, please contact our dental office at (865) 693-7631.