If you’ve experienced the loss of a tooth, it’s likely that you’ve done some research about the tooth replacement options that you have available to you. Depending on your specific condition, your Dentist in Old Bridge may give you a choice between bridges and dental implants. Though both solutions serve the same purpose, there are several reasons. Why dental implants may actually be the better choice for some patients. Check out the following three attributes that make implants a viable alternative:
1. Dental Implants are often a much more permanent solution than bridges. While well-cared-for bridges will typically last 10 to 20 years for the average patient, implants are generally made to last a lifetime. Not only does this make dental implants the more economical choice since patients won’t have to pay for another bridge in the next decade, but it also means that you’ll be able to avoid the hassle of having to undergo a procedure to get a new bridge multiple times in your lifetime.
2. Patients can get dental implants without causing any damage to the surrounding teeth. Unfortunately, getting bridges means that your dentist will have to file down the teeth that lie on either side of the bridge so that there will be room to properly place it in your mouth. Although this may not present problems in the beginning, it may make those teeth more susceptible to decay and disease in the long run, which will mean more dental care bills for you.
3. The implants that you get can actually be helpful for your whole mouth. Some people may be surprised to learn that your jawbone will begin to deteriorate in areas where it is not exercised on a daily basis because of tooth loss. Though bridges may be able to help a little with this problem, implants usually do a better job. This is because the dental implant procedure involves bone grafting and making sure that the tooth’s anchor is fixed to the bone. In this way, dental implants are able to help you maintain your oral health.
When it comes to replacing your missing teeth, dental implants are not the only option. However, the aforementioned benefits certainly make implants worth talking about with your Dentist in Old Bridge. Not only can they help restore your oral health, but they can deliver an aesthetically pleasing solution that helps to boost your overall confidence.