Understanding your dental restoration options in Dedham is crucial when it comes to replacing missing teeth and maintaining long-term oral health. To lend a hand, we’re looking at two long-term solutions: dental implants and bridges. Dental implants and bridges are two popular dental restoration options. Each offers its own distinct benefits. Understanding the differences between them can help individuals make informed decisions about their dental care. Let's explore the key factors to consider when choosing between dental implants and bridges.
Dental Implants: The Definition of Durability
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically inserted into a person’s jaw, where they fuse permanently with the bone through a process called “osseointegration.” Once an implant is securely in place, it almost perfectly replaces the feel and function of a natural tooth root.
Dental implants offer several advantages, including incredible stability, reliability, durability, and the stimulation necessary to preserve a person’s jawbone density and structure. Additionally, implants provide a sturdy foundation for dental restorations like dental crowns.
While dental implants may require a higher initial investment than bridges, their long-term benefits often make them a cost-effective choice.
What Are Dental Bridges and How Do They Work?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device consisting of artificial teeth (usually porcelain) that’s used to “bridge the gap” created by the loss of one or more teeth. A bridge is anchored to dental crowns or implants on either side of the gap being addressed. With proper care, a dental bridge can last for 7-10 years.
Custom-made and matching the color and shape of surrounding teeth, bridges also restore a person’s biting, chewing, and speaking functions while dramatically enhancing smile aesthetics. As with dental implants, this can have a profound positive effect on an individual’s self-confidence in social and professional settings.
Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridges: Factors to Consider
Cost: While dental implants typically involve a higher initial cost than bridges, they may offer better long-term value due to longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.
Durability: Dental implants are designed to last multiple decades, if not a lifetime, with proper care. Bridges, meanwhile, may require replacement every ten years or so.
Jawbone health: Dental implants stimulate jawbone growth and prevent bone loss. Bridges do not provide the same level of stimulation, which can lead to some attrition of the bone over time.
Precisely Placing Bridges and Dental Implants in Dedham, MA
If you're in the Dedham area and looking for a skilled dental care team to expertly guide you through the restorative dentistry process, whether you opt for a dental bridge or an implant, contact dentist Dr. Taejoon Park and the friendly and helpful Dental Park team to schedule a consultation! We are conveniently located near Milton, Canton, Newton, Hyde Park, and Norwood.