It’s crucial to replace your missing tooth, whether it’s due to tooth loss or tooth extraction. Missing a tooth affects not only your self-esteem but also affects your overall oral health. The reason is that gaps left by tooth loss make it challenging to chew and speak.
If left untreated, the gap can cause your teeth to move, resulting in dental issues, including facial collapse and jawbone loss.
Dental bridges and implants are the two most common techniques to replace missing teeth. Although dentists use both for the same purpose, there are some differences.
In this article, we’ll tell your everything you need to know about these restorations to help you decide which is better for you, dental bridge vs dental implant.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges consist of a false tooth named a pontic, which is supported on both sides by a crown. These anchoring teeth on either side of the gap are known as abutment teeth. As the name indicates, dental bridges “bridge” the gap between your teeth and helps restore the appearance and functioning of your teeth.
A dental bridge is usually made from porcelain, as one can easily match it to the natural colour of your tooth. But dental bridges can also be made from materials like gold and alloys.
How Long Do Dental Bridges Last?
In Australia, the cost of a dental bridge starts from $1,800. A dental bridge lasts up to 10 years without complications when adequately maintained. But if you neglect your oral hygiene and skip regular checkups, a dental bridge will only last up to 5 years.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth used to replace a missing tooth. It consists of an inserted titanium post into the jawbone. It acts like a tooth root and has a fixing point on top of a tooth crown—the titanium screw bonds with the jawbone to hold the implant without causing complications.
After 3-6 months, when the post bonds or fuses into the jawbone, there is an abutment with a fitted tooth crown.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
The cost of a dental implant starts from $3,000 in Australia. But they’re a permanent solution for missing teeth, lasting between 20-30 years if properly maintained.
Dental Bridge vs Dental Implant
- Appearance: Dental implants look and function just like your natural teeth. However, dental bridges are less aesthetically pleasing and harder to clean as the food may get lodged in them.
- Lifespan: Dental implants are more durable and last longer than dental bridges. In addition, dental implants require little maintenance.
- Time: Getting a dental implant is longer than a dental bridge.
- Procedure: A con of dental implants is that they require surgery that may involve risks. However, getting a dental bridge is pretty straightforward and requires no surgery.
- Risk of Damage to Adjacent Teeth and Jawbone: A dental implant protects your jawbone and prevents damage to the adjacent teeth. On the other hand, preparing the neighbouring teeth for dental bridges damages your natural teeth permanently.
- Cost: Dental implants cost more than dental bridges.
Depending on your needs, preference, and budget, you can choose a dental implant or a dental bridge.
Restorative Procedures in Wollongong, NSW, Australia
Dentist 4 U offers the best restorative dental procedures, such as dental bridges and implants, in Wollongong, NSW, Australia. Our restorative dentists can expertly perform these procedures and also offer a range of dental services. We can also help you decide between a dental bridge and vs dental implant. Contact our super-friendly customer service to book your appointment today.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our dentists. We offer dental services in Wollongong and Fairy Meadow.
