Dental Implants vs Bridges – Tooth Replacement in Canada Water SE16 - What are they and which is best?

Dental Implants and Dental Bridges - a powerful tool in M Dental Canada Water’s armory in achieving a smile transformation.

What Are Dental Implants and Dental Bridges?

Both Dental Implants and Dental Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. But here is where they differ:

• Dental Implants: are essentially a replacement for your tooth and root. They are secured into the jawbone to effectively act as a natural tooth root. Thereafter they support a crown (false tooth) or work with implants by providing a support for the bridge. 

• Dental Bridges: are designed to replace teeth and not the tooth’s root. Instead they sit on the gums and are secured into place with the support of existing teeth. Essentially the teeth around it act as an anchor to keep it in place. 

Dental Implants and Dental Bridges - Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth

Having a Dental Implant or Dental Bridge can really have a positive impact on your life. Lots of problems can be caused by missing teeth, some more obvious than others. People with teeth can experience difficulty eating and a change to the way they speak. But then there are the effects that you do not notice straight away. These includes:

• Deterioration of surrounding teeth 

• The face looking sunken 

• Bone loss 

• Gum disease 

• Jaw pain 

• Increased risk of cavities 

• Confidence issues 

As you can see the effect missing teeth can have on you is far greater than initially thought. Replacing them as soon as possible will help to minimise the effects. This is where Dental Implants and Dental Bridges come in. 

Which is better for you? Dental Implants or Dental Bridges?

Knowing which will be best for you ultimately should come from your dentist. However we can give you some general information to help you:

The Look: Generally speaking Dental Implants can look more natural than Dental Bridges. This is because they are designed to essentially become a part of your jawbone and are fixed. This is in contrast to Dental Bridges which sit on the gums, albeit fixed, but they can still create a natural look. 

The Feel: Most patients report that Dental Implants are more comfortable after the initial fit. That isn’t to say that Dental Bridges are uncomfortable - you just need to get used to the new feeling. 

Eating: Because Dental Implants are fitted into the jawbone you can eat normally and not be overly concerned with eating hard or crunchy food. Although it goes without saying that you should take care, even with your natural teeth, when eating hard, crunchy and even sugar or acidic food. 

Health: Dental Implants, unlike Dental Bridges, are said to promote bone growth, unlike Dental Bridges. 

Materials: Dental Implants are made from a very strong material - titanium. Whereas Dental Bridges are often made of metal alloys, porcelain or ceramic. All strong materials but obviously not as strong as the titanium used in Dental Implants. 

Cost: Dental Bridges are considered the more affordable solution. Dental Implants require a lot more work given the fusion that is needed into the jawbone along with the materials. Generally speaking, for one tooth, Dental Implants can be as much as four times more expensive. 

Treatment length: Dental Implants take around 3 to 6 months to fuse with the jawbone. Thereafter a crown or bridge can be fitted. With Dental Bridges your dentist will take impressions of the area and thereafter be able to create the Dental Bridge. This is often done within a matter of weeks. 

Life: Dental Implants, with the right care, can last around 25 years and in some cases a lifetime. This is compared to Dental Bridges which have a life expectancy of anything between 5 to 15 years. 

Taking care of your Dental Implants and Dental Bridges 

It goes without saying that a good dental routine is needed. Well it is needed regardless of whether cosmetic dentistry is carried out. But extra care is needed when you have received treatment. This will prolong the longevity of the treatment but also help you achieve healthy teeth and gums. 

Considering the pros and cons of Dental Implants and Dental Bridges

As you can see there are both pros and cons to both treatment options. Whilst generally speaking the best option will be Dental Implants cost can be a factor. It might also be that Dental Implants aren’t suitable for you because of the condition of your teeth or due to health. 

In conclusion both Dental Implants and Dental Bridges offer an effective choice for missing teeth. Regardless of the option, with the right dentist, you will be able to create the smile you deserve. With the Dental Implants or Dental Bridges creating a natural look making it virtually impossible for people to know they are false. 

Dental Treatment in Canada Water SE16 - What to expect! 

Our M Dental London team will take a look at the condition of your teeth, gums and general health. This includes a detailed history of your health. From there, and given your in-put, the dentist will be able to advise which is the best option for you. 

Undecided on which option is best for your missing teeth? Our M Dental experts are on hand to walk you through the options. Book a dental implant consultation in Canada Water online or or by giving us a call on 0204 518 8554. 

Explore of Cosmetic Dental Services 

Frequently Asked Question

Question: What’s the most natural way to replace a tooth?

Answer: Dental implants are often more natural and longer lasting.