Are you trying to decide whether to go with a dental bridge or not? If you have one or more missing teeth or badly damaged teeth that cannot be restored, a bridge is one option for replacing them. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to bridges when compared to other solutions, such as dental implants. Below are some of the pros and cons of dental bridges that may help you decide which option is best.
Pros of Dental Bridges
Here are the biggest advantages of choosing a dental bridge over the alternatives.
- Bridges have many advantages over dentures. In case a patient has enough healthy teeth left, dentists often recommend bridges instead of dentures. The healthy teeth can act as a grip for bridges contrary to dentures that must be anchored to the gums using a temporary sealant, which is not very secure.
- Bridges are faster than other options. Bridges are faster to place than implants, which is especially true because no bone grafting is necessary. Even if a few implants are put in place to hold the bridge, it is faster than getting additional implants.
- Bridges cost less than implants. A dental bridge doesn’t require very much precision and is less invasive to put in place, which means it can be easy on your budget and costs less than a dental implant.
Cons of Dental Bridges
There are also some drawbacks to dental bridges when compared to other teeth replacement options.
- Traditional bridges require putting crowns over perfectly healthy teeth. The healthy teeth on each of the two sides of the bridge will have to be shaved down and capped, resulting in losing some healthy tooth enamel. This elevates the risk of permanent damage to already healthy teeth.
- Implant-supported bridges cost more and take longer. Because the implants have to be placed in the beginning, it can take a few weeks to months for the process to complete, especially if bone grafting is required initially. Though the cost of the two implants on either side of the bridge does increase the overall cost, it will still be less than getting all implants.
- Bridges don’t last as long as implants. Like implants, bridges aren’t expected to last a lifetime. Because of the damage bridges inflict on the anchor teeth, they may not always be able to remain in place forever.
We Can Help You Pick the Best Option
Still not sure if a dental bridge is right for you? You need a piece of professional advice from a dentist with experience placing bridges and dental implants. Call Brookshire Smile Dental today at 281-934-1010 to schedule a consultation or request an appointment.