Losing a tooth can happen in the blink of an eye—whether you’ve bitten into a cherry pit, had an accident, or skipped brushing too many times. Dental implants and bridges offer a reliable, permanent solution that will restore your smile and confidence should you ever experience tooth loss for any reason.
It’s estimated that 69 percent of adults 35 to 44 have lost at least one adult tooth. At Asheville Dental, we understand losing teeth can significantly affect your self-esteem. We are pleased to provide two solutions that repair your teeth–dental implants and bridges.
Dental implants prevent the shifting of your remaining natural teeth, preserving your bite and the shape of your mouth.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants prevent the shifting of your remaining natural teeth, preserving your bite and the shape of your mouth. With screw-like devices, dental implants act as an anchor for an artificial tooth called a crown. They are made of titanium and connect to your natural bone tissue, forming a secure and stable bond.
Here are three implant solutions:
- Implant crowns, which is a single tooth that is put on top of a dental implant. This option is used for single-tooth replacements that don’t require a full denture.
- Implant-retained dentures (also referred to as a fixed-hybrid prosthesis) are another restoration method for securing your smile. This treatment provides even more stability than an implant-supported denture. However, it can only be removed by a trained dental professional.
- Implant bridges are another solution for patients missing some but not all of their teeth. Each implant must fuse naturally with your jawbone, acting as a tooth root, providing improved stability and functionality.
Dental implants look and feel like your regular teeth. You can feel confident with this method of restoring your smile.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Implants?
- Long-lasting solution. Dental implants are a more expensive option than other alternatives and can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental bridges and dentures, however, may need replacements and adjustments over time.
- Less maintenance. Other options like dentures involve more upkeep to maintain cleanliness and look presentable, including dental paste, cleaning tablets, regular brushing, re-fitting, and eventual replacements. Dental implants reduce the hassle and cost.
- Prevents bone loss. Because your jaw is made for chewing, dental implants mimic the roots of teeth, stopping the bone from deteriorating.
- Natural aesthetic improvements. This solution is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth. You’ll always be camera-ready, knowing that dental implants restore your smile.
Dental implants are a fantastic option for improving oral health, functionality, and self-worth. Our experienced dentists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan for your needs and budget.
Dental insurance is more likely to cover the cost of a bridge than an implant.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A bridge is a dental device that fills a space that a tooth previously occupied. This solution may be necessary to prevent additional shifting of the teeth, which can lead to bite (occlusion) or jaw problems that result in periodontal disease. Here are the three types of bridges:
- The “Fixed” bridge is the most popular option. It consists of a filler tooth attached to two crowns that fit over the existing teeth and hold the bridge in place.
- The “Maryland” bridge replaces the missing front teeth. This bridge has a filler attached to metal bands bonded to the abutment teeth.
- The “Cantilever” bridge is mainly used when the teeth are only on one side of the span (the length of a beam between two supports). An average three-unit cantilever bridge consists of two crowned teeth positioned next to each other on the same side of the missing tooth space. The filler tooth is then connected to the two crowned teeth, extending into the missing tooth space or end.
Dental bridges are an innocuous and successful solution for returning your beautiful smile. They generally last between 5 and 15 years.
What Are the Advantages of Dental Bridges?
- Enhanced appearance. Not only does a dental bridge restore the function of the lost tooth, but it also enhances the shape and color of the artificial tooth.
- Increased stability. You won’t have to stress about your dental bridges slipping out like dentures might. It’s firmly secured and only taken out during cleanings.
- Long-lasting. Similar to implants, dental bridges are a long-lasting solution, provided they are well-maintained.
- Faster solution. Dental bridges are the way to go if you’re after a speedy option. Typically, you’ll only need two appointments, unlike implants, which can take much longer to complete.
Booking a consultation with the Asheville Dental team is an excellent way to learn if this type of restoration is right for you.
Which Option Is Best for Me?
Many people prefer less complex and more affordable options when selecting dental procedures. However, there are several important factors to consider when choosing between dental implants and bridges, such as:
- Cost. Because dental implants usually require surgery, they are the more expensive option. Dental insurance is more likely to cover the cost of a bridge than an implant. If uninsured, talk to your dentist about partial dentures and other solutions.
- Number of missing teeth. A dental bridge may be the best option if more than one consecutive tooth is missing. Each implant requires a separate surgical attachment to your jawbone, making it more costly.
- Overall health. As we mentioned previously, dental implants require surgery. This means it might not be an option for people with medical conditions that slow down healing, including diabetes or leukemia.
- Time. A dental bridge can be placed in two trips to your dentist over a couple of weeks compared to implants, which can take months to complete.
It’s essential to consult with your dentist. Our practice provides personalized advice based on your oral health and individual needs.
Comprehensive Services at Asheville Dental
The best way to maintain oral health is to get a checkup every six months. Biannual appointments help keep teeth and gums healthy, reducing the possibility of future dental implants or bridges.
The Asheville Dental team is committed to providing you and your family with expert and compassionate care.
Contact us today, and let’s discuss your oral health goals.