Replacing missing teeth can make a world of difference for both your oral health and the look of your smile. 2 popular options for restoring missing teeth are dental bridges and dental implants.
If you’re missing one or more teeth and want to enhance your smile, improve your ability to chew and speak, and maintain good oral health, you might be a good candidate for a dental bridge or implant.
That said, the best treatment for you will depend on factors like your overall health, lifestyle, and the condition of your supporting teeth or jawbone. A dental exam is the first step in determining which type of treatment could be right for your dental health.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is a common solution for replacing missing teeth. It does exactly what its name suggests—it “bridges” the gap created by 1 or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of 1 or more artificial teeth, called pontics, held in place by crowns or attachments to the adjacent natural teeth or dental implants.
Dental bridges are custom-made to fit each person’s mouth. With proper care, they can last for years, offering a reliable solution for missing teeth.
Benefits of a Dental Bridge
- Restores your smile: A dental bridge helps by filling gaps with natural-looking artificial teeth.
- Improves function: Missing teeth can make chewing a challenge. A bridge restores your ability to eat comfortably and speak more clearly.
- Prevents shifting of teeth: When a tooth is missing, neighbouring teeth may start to shift into the empty space, leading to alignment issues. A dental bridge keeps your teeth in their proper position.
- Supports oral health: By filling the gap, a bridge helps maintain the structure of your jaw and prevents excessive wear on remaining teeth.
The Dental Bridge Process
The dental bridge process begins with an in-depth consultation. During this visit, our team will thoroughly assess your oral health, discuss your goals, and determine whether a dental bridge is the right solution for you. After this, the next steps include:
- Tooth preparation: If a dental bridge is the right choice for you, the next step is making room for the bridge. The teeth on either side of the gap are gently reshaped so they can securely hold the crowns that will support the bridge. We’ll create a temporary plastic bridge to protect your teeth while the permanent bridge is being made.
- Bridge creation: Using impressions or digital scans of your teeth, a custom bridge will be crafted in a dental laboratory. It typically takes a few weeks for the permanent bridge to be ready.
- Bridge placement: During your final appointment, the bridge is carefully adjusted for a perfect fit and then securely cemented into place. Before you leave, we’ll provide guidance on how to care for your bridge.
Are You Suitable for a Dental Bridge?
You may benefit from a dental bridge if you:
- Are missing 1 or more teeth with healthy teeth on either side of the gap.
- Want a quicker restorative option compared to dental implants.
- Are not a candidate for dental implants due to medical reasons or insufficient jawbone.
- Prefer to avoid surgery or don’t want anything artificial placed in your jaw.
While dental bridges are versatile, certain conditions may make them less effective. For example, a dental bridge may not be the best option if:
- The teeth next to the gap are not strong enough to support the bridge.
- There is insufficient tooth structure available for restoration.
- Gum disease or other oral health issues are currently untreated.
- You need to replace the last tooth in your arch, which requires support on both sides for a bridge.
What Is a Dental Implant?
Dental implants can be used to replace missing teeth by mimicking the structure of natural teeth. The process involves a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. This post acts like a secure, artificial root, providing a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
Once the titanium post is in place and has healed—which typically takes a few months for the bone to naturally fuse with the implant (a process called osseointegration)—a custom-made crown is attached to the implant. The crown is designed to match the size, shape, and colour of your natural teeth, creating a seamless, natural-looking result.
Dental implants can be used for a variety of cases, whether you’re missing a single tooth, several teeth, or need full mouth restoration.
The Dental Implant Process
One of the key benefits of dental implants lies in their ability to integrate with your jawbone. During a consultation, your dentist can determine if a dental implant could be beneficial for you. If so, you will proceed with the implant process. This includes:
- Surgical placement: During the first stage, the titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone. This post acts as the root of your new tooth, providing stability and strength.
- Healing period: After placement, the bone begins to grow around the implant. This creates a strong and secure bond, similar to that of a natural tooth root. This healing phase can take a few months.
- Crown placement: Once the implant has fully integrated, a custom-made crown is attached to the post. This crown is carefully crafted to blend in with your natural teeth, restoring both function and appearance.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
Dental implants can be an excellent option for many patients, but they may not be suitable for everyone. You may be a good candidate if:
- You’re missing 1 or more teeth and want a durable, natural-looking solution.
- You have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone to support the implant.
- You’re in good general health and can undergo minor surgical procedures.
That being said, some patients may require additional procedures, such as a bone graft, if there isn’t enough bone to support the implant.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Treatment
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, the choice between a dental bridge and a dental implant is an important one. Both options have their own advantages, and the right choice depends on your individual needs. Some things you and your dentist may consider during the process include:
- The health of your surrounding teeth and gums
- The condition of your jawbone
- Your current oral health and personal preferences
Get Advice on the Right Treatment for You
Choosing between a dental bridge and a dental implant requires careful consideration. The best way to determine which option is right for you is to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
During your appointment, we can evaluate your oral health, jawbone structure, and overall dental needs. We’ll also discuss your goals and any concerns you may have to craft a personalized treatment plan.Whichever option you choose, you can count on the team at Markham Dental Smiles to provide compassionate care and guidance every step of the way. Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward a healthy smile.
