When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants, and dental bridges are two of the most common solutions.
Both options have their benefits and drawbacks, but in most cases, dental implants are the superior choice.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why dental implants are better than dental bridges and why you should consider them if you’re missing one or more teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are small, screw-like structures that are surgically placed in the jawbone to serve as replacement roots for missing teeth.
After the implants are inserted, a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to them to create a natural-looking and functional replacement tooth.
Dental implants are made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, that fuse with the jawbone to create a strong and durable foundation for the replacement tooth.
What are Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are fixed prosthetic devices that can be used to replace a few or more missing teeth. They are typically made of porcelain or ceramic and are attached to the remaining teeth on either side of the gap.
Dental bridges can be an effective solution for replacing missing teeth, but they do have some limitations.
Why are Dental Implants Better than Dental Bridges?
Dental Implants are More Natural Looking
Dental implants are made & performed to look and function like natural teeth. They are custom-made to match the shape, size, and color of your existing teeth, so they blend in seamlessly with your smile.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, are often noticeable and can be difficult to match to the color of your natural teeth.
Dental Implants Preserve Bone Density
When a tooth is missing, the bone tissue in the jaw begins to deteriorate over time. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can help preserve bone density. They stimulate the bone tissue in the jaw just like natural teeth, which helps to maintain its shape and density.
Dental bridges, on the other hand, do not provide this benefit and can contribute to bone loss over time.
Dental Implants are More Durable
Dental implants are considered to be a permanent solution for missing teeth replacement. They are made of strong, durable materials that can last a lifetime with proper care.
Dental bridges typically need to be replaced every 5-10 years, which can be inconvenient and costly.
Dental Implants Provide Better Functionality
Dental implants are anchored in the jawbone, which means they provide excellent stability and support for replacement teeth. This allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence, without worrying about your replacement teeth shifting or coming loose.
Dental bridges, on the other side, can be less stable and may require additional maintenance to keep them in place.
Dental Implants are Easier to Maintain
Dental implants are easy to care for and require the same oral hygiene routine as natural teeth. You simply need to brush and floss regularly and visit your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.
Dental bridges, however, can be more difficult to clean and require special tools to get underneath them and remove plaque and bacteria.
Conclusion
While dental bridges can be an effective solution for replacing missing teeth, dental implants offer a superior option in terms of natural-looking appearance, durability, functionality, and ease of maintenance. They also provide the added benefit of preserving bone density, which can help prevent future dental problems.
If you’re considering tooth replacement options, be sure to discuss dental implants with your dentist to see if they are right for you.
History of dental implants
Dental implants are a common and popular solution for replacing missing teeth, but they have a long and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.
Evolution of dental implants
Early Forms of Dental Implants
The earliest recorded forms of dental implants date back to ancient civilizations such as the Mayans, Egyptians, and Etruscans. These civilizations used a variety of materials to replace missing teeth, including animal teeth, seashells, and even carved stones.
In the 7th century, the Chinese used bamboo pegs to replace missing teeth, and in the 18th century, French dentist Pierre Fauchard began using metal wires to stabilize replacement teeth.
The Birth of Modern Dental Implants
The modern dental implant as we know it today was first developed in the 1950s by Swedish orthopedic surgeon Per-Ingvar Brånemark. He discovered that titanium could fuse with bone tissue, a process he called osseointegration, and began experimenting with titanium implants in rabbits.
After several successful experiments, Brånemark placed his first dental implant in a human patient in 1965. The patient, a man missing four front teeth, received four titanium implants and a set of replacement teeth that he wore until his death in 2006.
