What is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is an artificial tooth placed between teeth. It is directly attached to the jaw or under the gum tissue. It “bridges” the gap where one or more teeth are missing. Bridges are commonly made of gold, porcelain or a combination of both.
What is Dental Bridge Surgery Like?
There are different types of dental bridge surgeries. There is a traditional bridge, where the teeth on each side of the missing tooth are crowned and an artificial tooth is added between them. There is also the more complex Maryland bridge, where artificial teeth and gums are bonded to existing teeth.
There are two visits required for dental bridge surgery. During the first visit, the neighboring teeth are prepared and adjusted, a teeth impression is made and a temporary bridge is inserted. During the second visit, the customized metal or porcelain bridge is inserted and adjusted accordingly.
Why Should I Have Dental Bridge Surgery?
Dental bridge surgery is an easy and relatively painless way to restore your smile and maintain proper face shape. In addition to this, they can help patients properly chew and speak. Finally, they can prevent other from drifting out of position.
Dental Bridge information, in the city of Riverside, can be accessed here!
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a surgical part that is used to replace missing teeth. It serves as an anchor for crowns, bridges and dentures. Implants are commonly made of titanium or other material.
What is Dental Implant Surgery Like?
There are three different phases with dental implant surgery. First, the dentist performs surgery and sets the implant into the jawbone. The healing period may take one day or up to one month. The dentist may provide a temporary crown or bridge during this time.
During this second phase, the bone around the implant will then grow in a process called osseointegration. This results in the bone actually growing around the implant, which makes it strong and stable. Third, the dentist will place a dental crown on the implant that has a customized size, shape and color to perfectly blend in with the other teeth.
Why Should I have Dental Implant Surgery?
There are many reasons to have a dental implant. It can improve your appearance and ability to speak clearly. Dental implants eliminate the discomfort of removing dentures and make eating easier. A very important benefit is that unlike dental bridge surgery, they do not require adjusting neighboring teeth.
What’s the difference between a Dental Bridge and Dental Implant?
While both options are considered very safe, there are major differences. Dental bridge surgery is simpler and helps to fix a missing tooth. However, the teeth next to the missing tooth are adjust and capped. In addition to this, the artificial tooth is attached to a natural tooth, which means you cannot floss in between it. This could lead to decay or other periodontal diseases.
Dental Implant surgery is more complex, can fix more serious oral issues and is a permanent solution. The secure fit looks better and often feels more comfortable and natural. Dental implants are considered to be more cost effective in the long run.
