If you have one or more missing teeth, you know how it affects you. Maybe you have a difficult time eating your favorite foods, and you might have trouble speaking. Missing teeth can also hurt your self-confidence and cause you to avoid social interaction. From a dental perspective, missing teeth can cause your other teeth to shift, creating alignment issues and a change in the shape of your face.
Replacing your missing teeth is essential, and dental bridges or dental implants are common procedures to do just that. So, how can you decide which one is better for you? Read on to find out.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a set of false teeth held in place with the natural teeth surrounding your missing teeth. Dental bridges can replace one or several missing teeth.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial titanium root placed into your jawbone. Once healed, a dental crown or bridge is added to the implant to replace your missing teeth.
Which One Is Right for You?
There are several factors to consider when deciding between a dental bridge or implant. Your dentist in Paducah, KY, can recommend the best tooth replacement option for you based on the following:
Price – A dental bridge costs less than a dental implant. If you have dental insurance, it will much more likely cover part of the cost of a dental bridge.
Number of missing teeth – A dental bridge may be your best option if you are missing two or more teeth in a row. Since a dental implant procedure is required for each missing tooth, replacing multiple missing teeth can be an extensive, costly process.
Time commitment – You will need to decide how much time you’re willing to spend to replace your missing teeth. Dental bridges can be completed with only a few trips to our dental office, while dental implants take several months to complete since your jawbone must heal before dental crowns can be added.
Your health – If you have a medical condition that might keep you from healing after dental implant surgery, or if your jawbone isn’t healthy enough to support the dental implant, your best choice may be a dental bridge.
Are You Looking for Dental Implants in Paducah, KY?
If you would like to speak to a member of our dental team about dental implants or dental bridges in Paducah, KY, we are ready to take your call! At Smile Station, our goal is to help you make the best oral health decisions. Contact our dental office at (270) 408-1134 for more information or to schedule an appointment.