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Dental Implant vs Bridges: Pros and Cons
Tooth loss is common in Australia. On average, people aged 15 years and over are missing 5.7 teeth and 1 in 25 Aussies aged 15 and over have no natural teeth left. So which is the better option in modern dentistry to replace these missing teeth, dental implants, or bridges? Which is the best choice for you? Our blog post will explore the pros and cons of each procedure for replacing missing teeth to help you make an informed decision.
Dental Implants: The Pros and Cons
Dental implants are a popular choice in Melbourne for tooth replacement. They involve our expert team at our Toorak clinic surgically placing a titanium post into your jawbone, which serves as an artificial anchor for the new tooth. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached to the post, giving you a natural-looking and functional tooth.
Pros of Dental Implants
Dental bridges are favoured for their relative simplicity in maintenance, providing an easy-to-care-for solution for tooth replacement. What sets them apart from some dental procedures is that they do not necessitate any alterations to the teeth surrounding the gap, preserving their natural structure.
With the right care and regular dental check-ups, the high durability of dental bridges allows them to potentially last a lifetime. Plus, dental bridges are designed to closely replicate the look and feel of your original teeth, offering a seamless aesthetic. This lends to a more realistic experience in terms of comfort and how your new teeth will function compared to other options.
Indeed, their ability to closely mimic natural teeth gives dental bridges an undeniable edge over alternative dental solutions.
Cons of Dental Implants
Despite their benefits, dental implants do come with some drawbacks. The most notable is the cost. Dental implants in Melbourne tend to be more expensive than bridges upfront. However, when factored over a lifetime, they can actually be a more cost-effective solution which needs to be considered in tooth bridge vs implant cost.
Another potential downside is the need for surgery. Implant placement is a surgical procedure that can lead to complications for some Melbourne people, such as infection, nerve damage, or sinus problems. However, these risks are generally low with a competent dental professional.
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Dental Bridges: The Pros and Cons
A dental bridge from Care Family Dental, as the name suggests, spans the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more dental crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap — these are known as ‘anchoring teeth’ — and a false tooth/teeth in between.
Dental Bridge Pros
This procedure at Care Family Dental is not necessarily regarded as cosmetic, which means it is covered by private health insurance in many instances (please check with your provider. They are also less invasive, eliminating the need for bone grafting and other surgical procedures. This is a big benefit for those that may not be a suitable candidate for surgery or who have anxiety over these types of procedures.
In general, dental bridges in Melbourne cost less than implants as well. And the process is relatively quick and painless, so you can have the whole procedure done over a couple of appointments spread over a couple of weeks.
Dental Bridge Cons
Their lifespan is a significant concern; they generally need to be replaced every 5 to 7 years, although some can last more than a decade. As time passes, dental bridges can lose their natural-looking appearance, potentially impacting the aesthetic appeal of your smile.
Compared to implants, dental bridges can lead to a higher occurrence of cavities and tooth decay in the surrounding teeth. You can take control of this scenario with regular brushing, flossing and checkups at Care Family Dental to avoid damaging the health teeth around the impacted area.
Both dental implants and bridges have their pros and cons. The right choice will depend on various factors, including your oral health, budget, and personal preference. By understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each, you can make a decision that best suits your needs.
Remember to always consult with the dental professionals at Care Family Dental before making a final decision. Our local Melbourne team can provide personalised advice based on your specific situation.
At Care Family Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve the smile you deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our dental implant and bridge services.
