Dentures are a common solution for replacing missing teeth, but they come with their drawbacks. Dentures can be uncomfortable as they are not permanently affixed and may require adhesive. This can affect your sense of taste and lead to discomfort and difficulty eating.
Moreover, dentures can shift while eating, causing inconvenience and compromising chewing efficiency. Over time, they may contribute to jaw bone recession due to the lack of consistent pressure on the jaw.
In contrast, dental implants offer a superior alternative. They provide a permanent, natural-feeling solution without the need for adhesives. Dental implants act like natural teeth, preserving your sense of taste and ensuring comfortable, stable function.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges have historically been the go-to choice for replacing missing teeth. Dental bridges work by anchoring a replacement tooth or teeth between healthy abutments, or supportive teeth. The abutment teeth are prepared and a custom-fit bridge is created to match your natural teeth. Once crafted, the bridge is cemented in place, effectively "bridging" the gap left by missing teeth, restoring both function and aesthetics.
While bridges are a viable choice, they come with several drawbacks, especially in the long term.
One significant downside to dental bridges is their potential to harm neighboring healthy teeth. Placing a fake tooth between real ones increases the risk of those healthy teeth deteriorating over time, as bacteria can become trapped under the bridge, leading to decay. In addition, dental bridges tend to appear less natural than implants and require periodic replacements, whereas implants can provide a lifelong solution.
When it comes to choosing between bridges, dentures, and implants, our recommendation is typically in favor of implants. However, we acknowledge that cost can be an important factor for many patients.
