Losing a tooth can affect one’s ability to chew, speak and feel confident in their smile. Fortunately, there are fantastic missing tooth solutions in Chelsea Heights. At A Plus Dental, we often get asked: ‘Which is better: a dental bridge or a dental implant’? However, the answer depends on your needs, lifestyle and budget. Here’s what you need to know.
Dental Bridges: A Quick and Reliable Fix
A dental bridge is a great choice if you want a fast and affordable way to replace a missing tooth. This option uses the neighbouring teeth as anchors to hold an artificial tooth in place, literally ‘bridging the gap.'
Pros:
- More budget-friendly than dental implants
- No surgery required—just a few dental visits
- Looks natural and restores function
Cons:
- Requires support from neighboring teeth
- May need to be replaced after 10-15 years
- Doesn’t prevent bone loss in the jaw
Dental Implants: The Gold Standard
A dental implant is a permanent, standalone solution that replaces both the missing tooth and its root. Because a dental implant is so long-lasting and mimics the function and anatomy of a natural tooth, it's considered by many to be the 'gold standard' of tooth replacements.
For the procedure, your dentist surgically places a small titanium post into the jawbone, and this post acts as a secure foundation for a custom-made dental crown, bridge or denture.
Pros:
- Long-lasting, and can even last a lifetime with proper care
- Helps preserve jawbone health and prevent bone loss
- Functions and feels just like a natural tooth
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than a bridge
- Requires a healing period after placement
- A minor surgical procedure is needed
Which Tooth Replacement Option Is Best for You?
If you want a quicker, lower-cost solution, a dental bridge might be best for your needs. But if you’re looking for long-term durability and bone health benefits, a dental implant may be the way to go.
Our Chelsea Heights Dentists Welcome Your Call
At A Plus Dental, we’ll help you decide on the best tooth replacement option for your needs. We invite you to book a consultation today.
We look forward to helping you restore your smile!