How Does a Dental Implant Compare to Other Tooth Replacement Options?

Advances in dentistry have made it possible to replace missing teeth with Dental implants that are more functional than the replaced teeth. Many people lose teeth due to gum disease, decay, and injury. Losing teeth often leads to numerous negative consequences. It can affect your smile, weaken your jawbone, and alter your bite. You can avoid these problems by opting for a suitable tooth-replacement option.

Dental implants, bridges, and dentures

A dental implant is a surgical fixture that dentists insert into the jaw. It is then allowed to bond with the bone over the span of several months. The implant replaces the tooth root and supports the replacement tooth. Dentists can use them to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all of the teeth. Other common tooth-replacement options include a fixed dental bridge and a denture.

Tooth-replacement options

Dentures are custom-made appliances that replace teeth and restore the appearance as well as oral functions that were lost. Dentures are usually affordable, but many people do not like the inconvenience of a removable appliance in the mouth. Dental bridges were the more common option before the recent shift to implant treatment. One disadvantage of bridges is the dependence on the adjacent natural teeth for support.

The advantages of dental implants

Dental implants are often preferred over other tooth-replacement options for several reasons. A dental implant replaces the tooth without affecting the health of the neighboring teeth. In the case of bridges, the adjacent teeth are involved in the process. They have to be ground down in order to support the bridge.

A dental implant can ensure the bone is better preserved because it replaces the tooth root. With a dental bridge, some of the bone that surrounded the tooth often starts to resorb or deteriorate. Implants fuse with the jawbone, which helps not only to keep the bone healthy but also intact. In the long-term, a dental implant can be easier to clean and may look better compared to a bridge.

In some cases, gums recede around a dental bridge. This may leave a visible defect when the bridge’s metal base or collar becomes exposed. A person may end up with an unattractive smile due to resorbed bone beneath the dental bridge. In some cases, the cement that holds the bridge firmly in place can wash out. This may allow bacteria to decay the teeth that support it.

Other considerations

A dentist can advise a patient on the ideal option after considering several factors. These include the state of the patient’s teeth, jawbone, and gums. A patient’s overall health will also be considered. Some chronic conditions, such as diabetes, can affect healing. It is important for the dentist to be informed of any chronic conditions and also drugs a patient is taking.

Takeaway

In dentistry, tooth replacement is meant to restore function and esthetics. Dentures, dental implants, and bridges can all be great choices for replacing missing teeth. However, numerous factors have to be considered in order to determine the one that is right for you. You should consult with your dentist about the option that will meet your needs.

Are you considering dental implants in the Peoria area? Get more information at https://familydentistrypeoria.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Peoria, AZ.