What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a permanent dental device that fills the gap created by missing teeth. It can replace a single missing tooth or multiple consecutive missing teeth. Typically, a bridge consists of two dental crowns placed on the adjacent teeth, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between to bridge the gap.
How do I know which type of tooth replacement to choose?
Every dental restoration and tooth replacement comes with different pros and cons. Based on a variety of factors, including your needs, budget, and lifestyle, your dentist will recommend the most appropriate tooth replacement option for you.
Dental Bridges or Dental Implants?
Dental bridges and dental implants both are long-term solutions for missing teeth. One important difference between the two is that dental bridges typically need to be replaced after 5 to 15 years, while dental implants can last quite a bit longer than that.
However, it's important to note that the dental bridge procedure is considerably less invasive compared to dental implants, which involve surgery, and it also entails a shorter recovery period. In most instances, dental implants tend to be more costly than bridges and are less likely to be covered by insurance.
Dental Bridges or Dentures?
The main difference between dental bridges and dentures is that dentures are removable, while bridges are fixed to the surrounding teeth.
Most of the time, a dental bridge will be recommended when there are only a few missing teeth to replace, or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth.
Dental bridges tend to be a little more costly than partial dentures, but both tooth replacement options are covered by most dental insurance plans.
Why replace missing teeth?
When missing teeth are not replaced, various dental health issues can arise. Difficulty in chewing and speaking may occur, and over time, the adjacent teeth can shift from their positions, exacerbating the problem. Moreover, the jaw structure surrounding the gaps may start to deteriorate, leading to facial collapse.
Fortunately, bridges, implants, and dentures are effective solutions to prevent these issues. They fill the gaps left by missing teeth, prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting, and help maintain your ability to chew and speak effectively.