Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants: What's the Difference?

Having one or more missing teeth can affect your ability to chew and appearance, diminishing confidence and leading to isolation. If you have a missing tooth or teeth, several options are available to restore your teeth's function and aesthetics. Modern dentistry offers reliable solutions such as dental bridges and dental implants in Shady Spring, Lochgelly, serving surrounding areas such as Beckley, Princeton, Lewisburg, Oak Hill, Summersville, Fayetteville, and Hinton, WV, to help patients regain their smiles.

Their unique benefits make these dental procedures exciting, and understanding the differences can help with decision-making. However, if you’re unsure about what treatment best suits your needs, our dedicated family dentists in Shady Spring are at your service.

What is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge is a false tooth designed to replace a missing tooth. The false tooth (pontic) is anchored to an adjacent natural tooth or dental implant. Dental bridges restore chewing, prevent shifting, and support facial structure. Custom bridges are created to bridge the gap in smiles and match the natural shade of teeth.

Abutments, a part of a dental bridge, are structures supporting the bridge. They are tiny connector posts often used in dental implant-supported bridges. Pontics, on the other hand, are artificial or false teeth used to fill the gap left by missing teeth.

What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are small posts attached to the jaw to stand in for the root of a tooth. When implants fuse with the bone, a dental crown is placed on top to mimic the look and function of a natural tooth. Unlike dental bridges, which rely on adjacent teeth for support, an implant stands independently to preserve the integrity of surrounding teeth. Also, implants help maintain jawbone density by stimulating bone growth to prevent the bone loss that often occurs after losing a tooth. This makes dental implants an excellent choice for patients looking for a permanent solution to missing teeth.

What to Expect from Each Procedure

To properly prepare for these treatments, our dentists in Shady Spring advise patients to understand what happens during the procedures.

Dental Bridge Procedure

Before we dive into the procedure for a dental bridge, it is important to note that the process slightly differs for each type of bridge. The process for a Maryland bridge is different from the traditional or cantilever bridge. However, the dental bridge procedure typically starts with the dentist preparing the adjacent teeth to accommodate the dental crowns supporting the bridge.

Impressions of the teeth are taken to create a custom bridge, but a temporary bridge is placed to protect the prepared teeth while waiting for the permanent one. When the permanent dental bridge is ready, the temporary one is removed, and the new one is placed. Adjustments are made to ensure comfort before the bridge is permanently secured.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implant procedures are usually personalized according to one’s dental needs, but there’s a general overview of what patients can expect from their dentists. It begins with an evaluation to determine bone density and oral health. If the dentist finds the jawbone volume insufficient, they may recommend a bone graft to create a stable foundation for the implant.

Afterward, the dental implant is placed into the jawbone and allowed to stay for several months to heal. This time allows the implant to integrate with the bone (osseointegration), and once the healing is complete, an abutment is attached to the implant for the final restoration. The final step is the placement of a custom dental crown, which will help provide a fully functional replacement tooth.

How to Determine Which Treatment is Best for You

Determining the best treatment depends on your budget, treatment goals, and oral health. If you prefer a non-surgical approach, a dental bridge offers an effective solution for replacing missing teeth in a shorter time frame. However, dental implants are more durable and natural-feeling to preserve jawbone health and prevent future dental complications. Consult our family dentists in Shady Spring and Lochgelly for personalized recommendations and advice.

Dental Bridges in Shady Spring, WV

Modern dental solutions make it easy to restore smiles and missing teeth. Our dental bridges and dental implants in Shady Spring and Lochgelly are excellent options for functional and aesthetic benefits. Schedule an appointment today to explore the best solution for restoring your teeth and confidence.