What are dental bridges?
Dental bridges are fixed dental appliances that literally "bridge" the gap left by missing teeth. These common tooth replacements can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Because they are permanently attached to the teeth on either side of the gap, unlike dentures, they can only be safely removed by a dentist. Dental bridges are also known as "permanent partial dentures."
How to care for your dental bridges
Once your dental bridge has been placed by your dentist, you can care for it in the same way that you care for your natural teeth. Your bridge should last for many years if you maintain it properly with regular brushing and flossing. You should also continue to see your dentist on a regular basis.
What are dental implants?
A dental implant is a small titanium rod that is surgically implanted into the jaw bone to serve as an artificial tooth root. Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. Titanium is a type of metal that has the ability to form bonds with natural bone, making it a secure and stable foundation for an artificial tooth. A dental crown (cap) is then placed on top of the implant to serve as the artificial tooth replacement.
When used together, the dental crown and implant provide a tooth replacement that looks, feels and functions much like a natural tooth.
How to care for your dental implants
As with dental bridges, you should take care of your dental implants just like you care for your natural teeth. This includes a thorough brushing and flossing routine, combined with regular visits to the dentist.
How do I know which option is right for me?
Dental implants and dental bridges both have their advantages, and the best option for any given person will depend on that person's oral health needs as well as his or her financial situation.
The placement of dental implants is significantly more invasive than the placement of dental bridges. However, dental implants can often appear and feel more natural than dental bridges.
In addition, for the dental implant procedure to be successful, you must have a sufficient volume of jaw bone. If you don't have enough bone in your jaw, you may still be able to get an implant, but you would need to undergo a bone grafting procedure first to ensure that the implant could be supported. As a result, the implant process would take longer and be somewhat more invasive.
At the end of the day, the only way to determine which tooth replacement option is best for you is to consult with your dentist.