Categories: Dental Implants

Multiple Dental Implants vs. Dental Bridge

Dental implants are a great way to replace multiple missing teeth. A dental bridge is also a solution for multiple teeth replacement in many cases as well. By learning more about the pros and cons of each option, it will help you decide which treatment option is right for you.

Choosing between multiple dental implants and a dental bridge

Missing teeth create a cosmetic, functional and oral health concern. Fortunately, there are long-term solutions to tooth loss, and two of the more popular solutions are dental implants and a dental bridge. The following is a review of multiple dental implants and a dental bridge, with insights into the benefits and potential drawbacks to both options.

Multiple dental implants defined

A dental implant is a dental fixture that is placed into the jawbone of the patient. It serves as the root of a replacement tooth or as an anchor for an implant-supported bridge. Multiple dental implants refer to dental implants that are used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can either be used to replace a small section of missing teeth or an entire row of missing teeth. For a section of missing teeth, most patients only need two dental implants, and a dental bridge is placed on the implants for a permanent and secure hold.

The pros and cons of dental implants

There are many advantages to dental implants when compared with dental bridges. The benefits vary for each patient, but several of the more common advantages include:

Prevents bone loss
Lasts longer
More natural feel
Increased durability

Since the dental implants are placed into the jawbone, it prevents bone loss from occurring. They can also last for more than twenty years with proper care. The most notable drawback to multiple dental implants for teeth replacement is the treatment process, which is on average much longer than with a dental bridge. Also, treatment involves a surgical procedure, so the patient must be willing and able to go through a minor surgical procedure.

Dental bridge explained

A dental bridge is a dental restoration that is supported by natural teeth or dental implants. They replace a section of missing teeth. The dentist may strengthen natural teeth with a dental crown before applying the bridge. Much like dental implants, a dental bridge can also replace a section of missing teeth or a single missing tooth. This is often a preferable solution to patients who want an easy solution and have healthy adjacent teeth.

The pros and cons of a dental bridge

The benefits of a dental bridge include faster treatment time and a less invasive treatment process. The cost of a dental bridge is often less than dental implants as well. However, a dental bridge is less durable and may not be an option if the patient does not have healthy adjacent teeth on each side of the missing section of teeth.