subject: Minneapolis Dental, Bridge Vs. Implant, Minneapolis Dentist [print this page] What are the advantages of having an implant versus a bridge?
The bridge is actually an older version of the implant, so to speak. It was used to fill in gaps between teeth. You have to have one supporting tooth on either side to complete the bridge. Ergo, the result is a beautiful smile and no visible gaps. In the case of the dental implant, you dont need any support because it supports itself.
The advantages of an implant versus a bridge are multiple. These are:
Easy Maintenance
With an implant you can floss between teeth without a special threader. This means that there is also less risk of decay or cavities in the supporting teeth because of the hard to reach places. Also, if this is a child or teenager with a bridge, they will tend to be less diligent with cleaning a bridge which requires a bit more care and time.
Long Term, High Rate of Success
With implants you do not have to re-do everything if there is a problem with one of the supporting tooth or even with the artificial tooth in the middle. And there are many cases of repeat procedures because of poor dental hygiene or trauma. In the long run, while implants may be initially more costly, it will not require as much back jobs as a bridge. Furthermore, if you have a second or third bridge done, you risk having a different smile each time. This is because the results will depend on the lab that does your bridge, and the person may not always be the same.
Implants started over 30 years ago which means that if there was any risk in the procedure or materials used, something would have surfaced by now. Almost 98% of all implants have excellent success rates and while there is a healing period, the results are more natural-looking.
Expertise and Precision
There is a reason why regular dentists cannot perform an implant, and this is because there are risks to bone damage. Thus, an implant may have a risk if not done properly, so you must make sure that you find a dentist trained for implant procedures, and with extensive experience is your target.
Reversible Procedure
If for any reason you want to have a bridge instead, this can be done easily. Removing the implant can be done without much ado, and you can decide to leave the gap open or have a bridge done. Furthermore, if the reverse procedure is done by an expert, you should not be vulnerable to any risks, or at the very least, minimal risk.
If you are going to consult with your dentist and he is not trained in implants, it would be logical for him to offer to do the bridge. This is his bread and butter, so he would not be pushing the implant which is a procedure he is untrained for. You should consult with both your regular dentist and an implant specialist before you make your decision.
The information both dentists will provide you should be able to amply provide you with enough to make the right decision.
by: Chris Johnson
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