Bridge or Dental Implant
When a tooth is lost, it used to be replaced with a bridge. The correct term for bridge in dentistry is fixed partial denture (FPD). With the advent of dental implants, many people of opting to replace the missing tooth with a dental implant.
There are some obvious advantages of using a dental implant.
- No need to file down, or grind down, the two adjacent teeth.
- No worries about future cavities. Dental implants are made of titanium.
- Dental implants provide a virtually permanent solution
- Dental implants can be used when there are no natural teeth remaining to support a bridge.
When a conventional bridge should be considered, instead of a dental implant, include the following situations.
- Some people can not tolerate the idea of having a metal screw in the jaw.
- Treatment with dental implants usually requires long treatment time, from 3 – 6 months or even longer when grafting is done along with or prior to the implant surgery.
- Most dental insurance does not cover dental implant.
- Severe jaw bone resorption that may require extensive bone grafting for dental implant placement.
- Severe jaw bone resorption that may compromise the aesthetics in the front area. Bridges can better hide such defects in some cases.
Most people enjoy their dental implant supported crowns. These dental implants do not develop cavities, but gum disease (periodontitis) can still occur around dental implants placed in the jaw bone. Sometimes, the crowns on top of the implant can come loose and may require simple re-cementing or screw tightening. It is important to have regular check ups with teeth restored with dental implants.
If you have any questions about this article, please send your comment. Loma Linda Implant is all about helping you understand what dental implants can do for you.
