Dental Implants v. Dentures & Bridges
When it comes to missing teeth, dentures and dental bridges have always been the go-to restoration treatments. This is primarily because dentures and bridges have been used for many years to provide restorations that are both affordable and quickly provided. However, more and more patients are becoming aware of dental implants, which can be used to provide restorations that are higher in quality, comfort, and stability.
Here at our office, we can provide all three of these restoration treatments. That said, we receive many patients who are unsure of which treatment they should choose to go with, as each one comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. To help you navigate the differences between these treatments, Dr. Barry Cohen encourages you to read on below.
Stability
Dentures: Unlike other restoration treatments, dentures are not permanently fixed to your jaw. Instead, they will merely sit on top of your gums. For most patients, an adhesive will need to be used in order to keep the restoration in place. Unfortunately, dentures still have a reputation of falling out of place, even when an adhesive is used.
Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are attached to the teeth surrounding the missing tooth that is being replaced. These surrounding teeth are filed down so that the corresponding dental crowns can be attached. While this support gives the restoration added stability, these filed down teeth have a higher chance of developing tooth decay or a need for a root canal or extraction. Each of these situations will require that the bridge is removed.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are permanently fused to your jawbone, which means they should never get loose or move out of their proper position. This permanence allows dental implants to bite and chew far better than other tooth restoration treatments.
Longevity
Dentures: The average length of time a set of dentures will last is about seven years, at which point they will need to be replaced. That said, this time can vary depending on how well you take care of your treatment.
Dental Bridges: Much like dentures, dental bridges also only last about seven years before they will need to be replaced. However, if your supporting teeth become infected, then it is possible that your dental bridge will need to be removed sooner than expected.
Dental Implants: Unlike these other treatments, dental implants are permanently fused to your jawbone, which allows them to function no different from your natural teeth. With the proper care and support, your dental implants can end up lasting you for many years to come.
Comfort
Dentures: While, yes, dentures are custom-molded for each patient in order to ensure that they fit perfectly, general wear and tear will severely detract from the treatment’s comfort.
Dental Bridges: Dental bridges tend to be comfortable and stay comfortable for quite some time after their placement. However, should the teeth supporting the bridge become infected, then you are likely to experience much pain and discomfort. Maintaining a dental bridge can also be difficult, and you will have to purchase special tools to clean and floss them.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are custom-made for you in order to make sure that they perfectly fit your jaw. The implant fixture piece is fused to your jawbone, allowing it to perfectly replicate the feel and function of a natural tooth root. This means that your dental implants should feel no different from any of your natural teeth. And, for patients with a single implant-supported crown, they will be able to brush and floss their restoration without requiring any additional tools.
Determine The Best Treatment For Your Needs
Not every restoration treatment is the best solution for every patient looking to replace their missing teeth. In fact, some patients may be better served by a dental bridge or denture instead of a dental implant. Other patients may be better off combining two of these treatments together. In order to determine the best treatment for your personal needs, you will need to attend a consultation at our office with Dr. Barry Cohen. If you would like to schedule your free no-obligation consultation, contact our office today. We welcome patients from Drexel Hill, Upper Darby, Havertown, Springfield, and Broomall.
DENTAL IMPLANTS
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