If you’re missing teeth—or you will be soon because of damage or decay—you may be deciding how to restore your smile and regain your confidence. Thankfully, restoration dentistry has come a long way, and there are several viable options for replacing missing teeth nowadays. Two of the most popular approaches are dental implants and bridges. Here’s what you should know about the major differences between the two so you can choose the right one. 

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are comprised of a titanium root, which is inserted directly into the jawbone, and a porcelain or ceramic crown. With proper care, implants will last well over 25 years. Additionally, they're the only restorative option that prevents the natural deterioration of bone that otherwise occurs after losing a permanent tooth. Because implants require surgical insertion, though, they cost a lot more per tooth than bridges or dentures. Additionally, the gums must heal fully before the crown is placed on top, so the entire procedure can take a few months from start to finish.

This option is the closest to natural, strong teeth dentistry can get, so there’s no surprise why it’s so popular. The best candidates for dental implants are typically those who only need to replace a few missing teeth because of the price. However, there are less expensive ways to replace all of your upper and/or lower teeth using a combination of implants and bridges. Regardless of whether you’re getting one implant or six, though, you must have healthy gums with enough remaining bone for the root to take hold. 

What Are Dental Bridges?

Dental bridges “bridge” the gap left by a missing tooth. A traditional bridge is comprised of an artificial tooth supported by two caps. The caps are placed over the teeth to the left and right of the missing tooth, and the prosthetic fills the space between them. 

Dental bridges are a relatively fast and easy way to replace missing teeth. Although the two supporting teeth may need to be filed down to make room for the caps, preparation is otherwise minimal. Additionally, bridges are fairly cost-effective. With proper care, they can last for 15 years or more. If you don’t like the idea of having surgery to replace one or more missing teeth—or you don’t have the adequate bone structure to support implants—bridges may be the answer. 

To learn more about dental implants or bridges, turn to Anderson Dental Group in Mooresville, NC. Their friendly team has designated their state-of-the-art facility a “No Lecture Zone,” which means patients are never reprimanded for not brushing or flossing often enough. Instead, you’ll be welcomed with open arms and treated with the utmost respect, compassion, and professionalism from start to finish. To learn more about the experienced dentists on their team, visit their website, then call (704) 663-3300 to make an appointment.