Dental Implants Lexington
When considering tooth replacement options like dental implants Lexington area residents must carefully weigh all of the factors involved. Such an important decision must be made with solid information to guide you into making the right choice to restore your teeth, smile and self-confidence.
Ultimately, the decision between dental implants and bridges can be made between you and your dentist at an initial consultation. We have put together this guide to provide you with a starting place so that you can come to this consultation knowing what to expect.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is an appliance attached to teeth around the gap in your smile that bridges the entire area. In a conventional bridge, the teeth on each side of the gap are trimmed down to make room for the dental bridge. The dentist then places a cap over the teeth along with the bridge to replace missing teeth.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a type of tooth replacement involving three components that function as one unit. The first component of a dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed within the patient’s mouth to firmly anchor the implant. Titanium is chosen because this is a type of metal that is not known to react with organic materials like bone and tissue.
The second component of a dental implant is known as an abutment. The purpose of the abutment is to connect the metal post, abutment and subsequent dental crown that is placed in the final appointment.
Although most dental implant patients receive their new implants in only two appointments, there is an exception. Some people do not have enough jawbone mass to support an implant. In that case, a bone graft procedure can be performed. However, this will add additional time and expense to the entire implant process.
Lexington Dental Implants: Advantages
Dental implants make a superior tooth replacement treatment option for most people for a variety of reasons, including:
- Fixed restoration that will not shift within your mouth, as with dentures.
- Extremely durable. Can be expected to last for a lifetime when properly cared for.
- Serves as both a functional and aesthetic replacement for one or more natural teeth.
- Prevents bone loss that would otherwise occur.
Differences Between Dental Implants and Bridges
In terms of appearance, a casual observer will probably notice little difference between dental implants and bridges. However, both treatments are quite dissimilar from each other for a variety of reasons.
One key difference is durability. Bridges typically last around 10 years, while implants should last for a lifetime if cared for correctly.
Although dental implants cost more, it might be helpful to think of the cost as being an upfront expense. Since dental bridges may need to be replaced multiple times over the course of your life, they may end up costing more than a dental implant that has almost every other advantage over bridges.
In addition, dental bridges place great stress on the natural teeth that they are attached to. This can cause problems with these teeth that may require additional, expensive procedures down the road.
Learn More
Schedule a consultation with Lexington Smile Studio to learn more about dental implants and bridges.Call (781) 861-7645 or request an appointment online.
