Which one is better; dental implants or bridgework
Choosing the better option
Before you can begin to read the different factors that are related to the dental implants and the bridgework, it is important for you to understand what comprises the human tooth. The teeth usually contain two main parts; the root and the crown. The root is the part that keeps the teeth in place and firmly rooted.
So when you hear the term dental implants procedure, it is a procedure done to replace the root of the tooth. During the surgical procedure, the implant will be fixed on the jaw bone. The dental implant procedure usually involves the attachment of the crown to the implant. This is what will make the tooth to function properly.
For the process to be successful there are conditions that you must meet;
- You must have a strong and quality bone to support the implant
- You also need to have healthy gums especially on the adjacent teeth. If the gums are healthy, then it will be easy for you to get that natural look.
Bridgework on the other hand is a process that involves restoration of the teeth. The tooth that is to be replaced is usually fixed by attaching it to the adjacent teeth. The surrounding teeth usually act as the bridge for the false teeth. Your dentist will recommend the right bridgework for you depending on the number of teeth that you have lost. For example, the dentist may recommend that you have the three-bridge procedure. This will mean that the three crowns will be joined together with the false tooth being placed in the middle.
So, what are the pros and cons of the two procedures?
Below is a list of the different advantages and disadvantages. Remember that these are just guidelines and you will need to consult with a dentist for them you a detailed analysis of the best option for you based on your dental condition.
Pros of dental implants
- They are reliable and functional; the implants are usually fixed on the jaw bone and thus they will give you the natural teeth feeling
- Because they are directly fixed, the implants will not affect the adjacent teeth.
- The implant are fixed with different tools and thus they cannot decay
- They do not put pressure on the gum and therefore it is hard for you to develop gum disease.
Cons of dental implants
- The procedure is time consuming. You will be required to make several visits to the dentist for the procedure to be successful
- It is more expensive
- It requires surgery
- Because of the surgical procedure, you will require healing time
Pros of bridgework
- Less costly
- It is not time consuming
- Functional
Cons of the bridgework
- The enamel of the adjacent teeth is usually removed
- You will be susceptible to tooth decay
- The process may affect the nerves and you may require the root canal treatment
- Gum disease