Implants Instead of Bridges?

One decision that many patients have to decide on is whether to replace lost teeth with an implant or bridge. A summary of the advantages and disadvantages are as follows:

BRIDGE ADVANTAGES Can be completely in about two weeks Look natural and are strong Can be less expensive (short term!) than implants Can be used to additionally realign misplaced teeth

BRIDGE DISADVANTAGES Bone loss is not stopped in the areas where the teeth are lost-leading to gaps and food getting caught beneath bridgework over time Difficult to floss beneath requiring special floss or cleaners If any of the supporting crowns are compromised or get decay around them, the entire bridge needs to be replaced Expected longevity only 5 to 15 years The teeth that will be needed to support the bridge, even if they are in good condition, will need to be drilled away to fit supporting crowns

IMPLANT ADVANTAGES Preserves the bone in the areas where the teeth are lost Much easier to floss and clean around than bridges Longevity 15 to 40 years Are not susceptible to decay Adjacent teeth will not need to be "cut down" to retain the bridge

IMPLANT DISADVANTAGES Initial cost is usually more expensive than bridgework If the patient waited too long for the implant to be placed additional procedures may need to done to increase the amount of bone for implant support Require 1 to 6 months to fully complete implant replacement and restoration depending on type and bone quality

In short, most patients find that the implant replacement to more comfortable and easier to care and get less food caught around them. Implants are moe costly short term, but over a 5 to 20 year period much less expensive and expected longevity is greater. Surrounding teeth are also healthier with implant replacement.