We get a lot of questions from people here in Tucson about the different options for replacing teeth. Patients with missing or failing teeth eventually come to a decision – should you solve the problem with a dental bridge or dental implants? Usually, this comes as a cost-benefit analysis. Dental bridges and dental implants offer modern solutions to restore function to areas of missing teeth. But depending on your individual situation there may be a significantly better solution.
Dental Bridges vs. Implants
When you get a dental bridge, a replacement tooth is attached to other healthy teeth which provides the necessary support. This process ultimately weakens the other teeth that it is attached to it. Dental bridges typically are a lower-cost option. Dental implants on the other hand are the absolute best solution for long-term success, cosmetic appeal, and overall quality of life. They simply look and feel a lot more like natural teeth and last a lifetime.
The Key Difference for All-on-4 Dental Implants
All-on-4 implants allow you to replace more than just one single tooth at a time. You are able to replace missing teeth in the upper arch, lower arch, or both. This can also likely be done in one single visit, which dramatically cuts down on the time it takes for traditional dental implants or bridges to be put into place. You get the most like-natural appearance of an implant with a cost-effective dental implant option for multiple teeth.
When you get a bridge, a replacement tooth is attached to two healthy teeth which provide support. This is one of the key advantages of dental implants: the time required for completion is relatively short, as full completion requires only several weeks. But there is a major caveat to be mindful of: the healthy teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are damaged in the process.
How Long Do All-on-4 Implants Last?
In some cases, individual dental bridges may not always be the most reliable long-term solution. This is one of the primary reasons that patients consider implants, despite being the more expensive option. All-on-4 dental implants that use the highest quality materials, such as zirconia or porcelain, can easily be a lifetime solution for patients that are diligent about proper care. This involves regular brushing, flossing, and dental hygiene.
Helping You Make the Right Choices
If you’re facing decisions about replacing teeth with either of these options, or you’ve already got an opinion from another provider, we encourage you to always get a 2nd opinion. We can sit down with you and look at your situation and determine the best course of action. Together we can make the best decision for your health and quality of life. Contact us today to learn more!
