If you have been faced with tooth loss, we understand just how challenging the feeling can be. For this reason, we offer dental implants in Port Moody and bridges. But how can you determine if you should opt for a dental implant or a bridge? To make sure you make an informed decision, it is important to learn the following facts, pros, and cons each option offers. Note, that your Port Moody dentist prioritizes patient education and will discuss your options in lengthy detail prior to you committing to any procedure.
Dental Implants and Their Types
Dental implants are an exceptional replacement option if you have lost one or multiple teeth due to injury, periodontal disease, trauma etc. So going back to the question, what exactly are dental implants and what do they entail. A dental implant in Port Moody is a titanium post that acts as a tooth root and supports a crown. Each implant is surgically inserted into your jawbone by your dentist where they will fuse or Osseo integrate into your jawbone to ensure they are anchored in position. Once the Osseointegration process– which usually takes 2 to 6 weeks is complete, your dentist in Port Moody will attach an abutment to the post frame. This protrudes above the gum line which provides the area where the dental crown is cemented or screwed onto. The types of dental implants are as follows:
Endosteal implants
Endosteal implants are directly implanted into your jawbone during surgery. A second surgery will be required to connect the post to the first implant once the gum tissue has healed. Lastly, your dentist will mount an artificial tooth to the post.
Subperiosteal implants
Subperiosteal implants entail a metal frame that is fitted onto your jawbone right below your gum tissue. The frame becomes fixed to your jawbone as your gums heal over time. Once this process is complete, your dentist will attach an artificial tooth to the post.
Dental Implant Pros and Cons
Pros
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Dental implants require little maintenance, especially when compared to other restoration options including dentures. You will not be required to handle sticky adhesives or use special products to clean your restoration. Simply brush twice daily, floss regularly, and schedule semi-annual dental checkups at your Port Moody dental clinic.
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Dental implants are the most natural-looking restoration. Not only do they look, feel, and function like a natural tooth they become a permanent part of your jawbone. They are strong, stable and will enhance your confidence.
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Dental implants protect your jawbone. When you have an open space in your mouth that was once filled with a tooth, this puts your jawbone at risk for deterioration. When you have dental implants in Port Moody it stimulates and preserves your natural bone growth, thus preventing bone loss.
- Dental implants do not strain your teeth, unlike a bridge. A dental implant near you stands on its own support and does not strain other teeth, helping to protect adjacent teeth.
Cons
- Dental implants require surgery as they must be attached to your bone and as with any surgery, there are always risks to consider.
- Dental implants require more time and the procedure cannot be completed in one visit.
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Dental implants are costlier, however, factors like the implant type and condition of the tooth treated to affect the price.
Dental Bridges and Their Types
Dental bridges in Port Moody bridge the gap between one or several absent teeth. Natural teeth or implants on either side will support the bridge. This entails two or more crowns for your teeth on each part of the gap. We call the anchoring teeth the abutment teeth and the pontics are the false teeth that reside in between. The types of dental bridges are as follows:
Traditional bridges
This is the most common bridge type and is made of ceramics or porcelain fused to metal.
Cantilever bridges
This bridge type is not as common as the traditional bridge. It is used when there are only adjacent teeth on one side of the missing teeth.
Maryland bonded bridges
This bridge type is made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth supported by a porcelain or metal framework.
Dental Bridges Pros and Cons
Pros
- Dental bridges require a simple procedure and are less painful than dental implants. No surgery is required.
- Dental bridges are easier and faster to obtain; they require only a few weeks at the most. Dental implants may require several months alternatively.
- Dental bridges in Port Moody are more affordable than dental implants.
Cons
- Dental bridges are less aesthetically pleasing since they do not appear to be as natural as dental bridges are.
- Dental bridges in Port Moody must be replaced periodically, specifically every 5 to 7 years.
Dental bridges may damage your natural teeth as your adjacent teeth will undergo quite a lot of preparation including the removal of tooth structure.