DENTURE VS IMPLANT/BRIDGE : HOW TO CHOOSE AND WHY?
30th April 2021
There are several options to replace tooth loss, the options revolve between fixed or removable prosthesis, and these includes dentures, dental bridges and implants. However, selecting the right solution depends on many factors, from price to preference and more, how can you know which is the right solution for you?
Fixed prostheses are dental bridges and dental implants, on the other hand removable prosthesis is the denture. Both fixed and removable prostheses have their own benefits, so it’s important to check your options with your dentist. In this article, we are breaking down each treatment, here’s what you need to know about them.
WHAT IS DENTURE?
Dentures are removable, prosthetic teeth for your mouth. It can be either full or partial and are fitted in a patient’s mouth to replace both missing teeth and some gum tissue. With dentures, there are two options; complete denture or partial dentures. Complete dentures replaces all teeth in upper or lower jaw. Partial denture are used to fill gaps, this type of denture are more commonly used in cases where there are still natural teeth remain.
WHAT IS DENTAL BRIDGE?
Dental bridge is typically consist of two or more specially fitted crowns that are placed on the abutment or anchoring teeth on either side of the space formed by your missing tooth or teeth. Fixed bridges are strong and reliable and in most cases they feel and look very much like natural teeth. The pontic’s are the artificial teeth that fill gaps between the abutment teeth, and they’re usually made from gold, porcelain alloys, or a combination of materials. The anchor teeth can be your natural teeth or implants and they act as the main support for your bridge. They serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, enabling you to eat and speak better as well as restoring your teeth appearance.
WHAT IS DENTAL IMPLANT?
Dental implant is a titanium post that is inserted into the jawbone. It functions as a replica for the root of a natural tooth. This solution is permanent to replace a tooth loss. The implant post bonds firmly with the jawbone, in which it creates an anchor that is used to hold a replacement tooth. Implants are close to a natural teeth, it can help maintain your jaw structure too. However, implants need sufficient healthy bone in which to securely fit it to the jaw. Bone and tissue graft can be done for patient lack of bone, but that will further rack up the total cost for treatment.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING DENTAL IMPLANTS, DENTAL BRIDGE AND DENTURES?
- COST
Dental implants and dental bridge are more costly than dentures, though the treatment fee may vary based on how many missing teeth, overall oral health, type of materials used for bridge. In certain cases, additional procedures are required for instance bone augmentation using bone graft (increases bone volume) prior to implant placement, sinus lift, intentional root canal for tooth which act as the support for the bridges and more. - COMFORTABILITY
Dentures can be uncomfortable, affect your ability to experience the full taste of food, cause sore gums and shift and click in your mouth when you speak, eat, smile, yawn or cough. While the initial costs are low, they only last an average of 7 to 15 years, and the replacement costs can be significant over the long term. They need to be removed regularly for cleaning, which can be a time-consuming hassle. Also, as with a partial denture, the natural bone underneath a complete denture may deteriorate over time, permanently changing the appearance of your smile and face. - MAINTENANCE
While dentures are feasible for long term usage, it requires more frequent maintenance than dental implants. For instance, it is not recommended to wear them overnight and should rinse in water or special cleaning solution. As the bite with denture will change over time, denture may require to be adjusted. This is dissimilar on dental implant and bridge as they are permanently fixed, however it may need replacement if the prosthesis cracked or broken. On the other hand, care for dental implants and bridge are identical to our standard dental hygiene for natural teeth. It should be clean at least twice per day with soft bristle toothbrush and having a regular dental check-ups twice annually.
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