Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant: Which Is Right for Me?
Dental damage, disease, and dysfunction can all lead to significant tooth loss. Indeed, nearly 120 million Americans are currently living with tooth loss. But, restorative dentistry aims to replace missing teeth with custom-made appliances, like dental implants.
At Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist, our talented Staten Island, NY, dentists can replace missing teeth with a range of restorative devices. For example, dental bridges and dental implants are two restorative solutions that our patients frequently choose to repair the function and appearance of their smiles.
Understanding the differences between a dental bridge vs. dental implant will help you choose the best restoration for your oral health, lifestyle, and budget. Here, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of each so that you can make a well-informed decision.
Comparing Functionality
The functionality of a dental bridge compared to a dental implant is notably different. A traditional dental bridge is a removable appliance that uses neighboring teeth to secure its position in the mouth. A dental implant, however, is a permanent fixture that requires a restoration, like a dental crown, following surgical implantation.
Ease of Everyday Use
Patients with busy lifestyles may benefit more from dental implants because they act like permanent tooth roots. This means that once the implant heals, it is a lasting, biological component that is unlikely to move or sustain damage. Additionally, little more than once-daily flossing and twice-daily brushing will keep a dental implant healthy.
Cost Analysis
Cost is a major factor when comparing a dental bridge vs. dental implant. Dental bridges cost approximately $500 per tooth, whereas dental implants may cost up to $1,600 per tooth. In general, insurance providers are more likely to cover dental bridges than dental implants.
Appliance Lifespan
The lifespan of a dental restoration is just as important as the cost. A dental bridge requires replacement every five to seven years. Dental implants, however, have a success rate of 97%, which contributes to their long lifespan.
Treatment Timeline
Our Staten Island team can create beautiful, lifelike dental bridges in as little as two appointments. Dental implants can take up to six months to fully heal before our team can place a final restoration on them.
Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant: The Verdict
Patients who are not in a hurry to repair their smile may benefit the most from sturdy, long-lasting dental implants. Such permanence and reliability, however, comes with a higher cost and longer treatment timeline.
A dental bridge can replace missing teeth faster and cheaper, but frequently replacing damaged or missing bridges can quickly add to overall costs. Additionally, dental bridges do not offer the same level of tooth and bone support as dental implants.
Contact Us About Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent tooth-replacement option for most patients. If you’re ready to schedule a dental implant consultation, then request it online here. Patients can also reach our Staten Island dental clinic at (718) 705-4434.