Weighing the Pros and Cons of Implants vs. Traditional Bridges

When considering options for replacing missing teeth, patients often consider both implants and bridges. The repercussions of tooth loss on health can be significant, leading to issues like bone degeneration and displacement of neighboring teeth.

Both traditional Bridges and Implants offer solutions for providing restorative tooth replacement that enhances functionality and aesthetics. However, it is crucial to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative before making a decision. And although implants can also take the form of implants for single crowns and also for implant-supported dentures, the focus of this specific article is a review of the benefits and drawbacks of implants compared to traditional bridges.

While this article is not intended to cover all the details of implants vs. bridges, the intention is to provide an overview to be used by the patient as a tool in determining their path toward dental restoration for missing teeth.

Pros of Dental Implants

1. Dental Implants are known for their endurance. Unlike Bridges that may require replacement after 10 to 15 years, dental implants have the potential to last a lifetime when maintained properly.

2. A benefit of Implants is the capability to replicate the appearance and sensation of natural teeth. By being positioned in the jawbone, they offer stability much like that of a tooth root. Combined with tailor-made crowns attached to the Implants, they seamlessly blend with your existing tooth structure.

3. Dental Implants help maintain jawbone health by stimulating it through biting and chewing. Unlike bridges that rely on neighboring teeth for support, dental Implants preserve the integrity of surrounding teeth.

Cons of Dental Implants

1. Compared to Bridges, placing Implants involves a surgical process that includes incisions in the gums and drilling into the jawbone. The entire process of Implants involves appointments with both a restorative general dentist such as Dr. Ellzey and an oral surgeon of the patient’s choice. The surgical phase is completed by the oral surgeon to place the Implant bodies in the jawbone; Dr. Ellzey, as the general dentist, places the restorative implant teeth (single crown, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures) after the patient has healed from the implant surgery. While advancements in techniques have made Implants safer and less painful, some individuals may still face discomfort during the surgical recovery period which typically is four (4) months from the time the implant is surgically placed in the jawbone to the restorative process of placing the Implants. Also, getting Implants typically requires visits spread over several months due to various steps involved: initial evaluation, implant placement surgery by an oral surgeon, healing phase monitored by the oral surgeon, attaching the abutment, and lastly, final crown, bridge or denture placement/restoration by Dr. Ellzey. This extended timeline may not suit those seeking a faster solution for tooth replacement. In addition, part of the initial consultation process is to evaluate if the patient is a viable candidate for implants. History of smoking, diabetes, and cancer/cancer treatments may eliminate a patient as the structure of the jawbone that supports the implant may be compromised due to these conditions.

2. The intricate processes involved, such as surgery, specialized materials, and customized crowns, bridges, and dentures, contribute to the increased expenses. While dental insurance might cover aspects of the out-of-pocket treatment costs, overall fees can still be substantial and higher in costs compared to traditional Bridges.

Pros of Traditional Bridges

1. When it comes to replacing missing teeth, traditional Bridges offer a solution compared to implants, which does not involve surgery and the associated recovery time. After the consultation appointment, the Bridge process is only two (2) appointments starting with the Bridge “prep” appointment followed by the “delivery/placement” of the Bridge a couple of weeks later. Bridges do not require any “healing” time like implants and both appointments are done by Dr. Ellzey, as a general dentist.

2. The costs for Bridges are generally much less when compared to dental Implants. The materials used in making Bridges, such as porcelain fused to metal or ceramic, help keep the costs lower as well as not having the costs of a surgical procedure. Additionally, dental insurance plans usually provide some coverage for the cost of traditional Bridges.

3. Bridges are a good choice for individuals with limited missing teeth since they rely on adjacent teeth for support (known as abutment teeth). As indicated above, Bridges can be an option for those with limited jawbone density or medical conditions that rule out surgery such as long-term tobacco use or high A1C levels.

Cons of Bridges

1. During the placement of a Bridge, healthy adjacent teeth need to be shaved/prepped to ensure stability and support. This alteration can make these teeth more vulnerable to damage or decay over time.

2. Unlike Implants that stimulate the jawbone by being anchored in the bone itself, Bridges sit on top of the gums and do not provide the same level of stimulation. Over time, the lack of activity could result in reduced bone density and alterations in the structure of the tooth face. Traditional Bridges typically last 10–15 years.

In Conclusion

When choosing between Implants and traditional Bridges, it is essential to weigh factors like durability, appearance, impact on oral health, invasiveness of procedures, costs involved, and individual suitability. Also, as stated above, not all patients with missing teeth meet the health history requirements for Implants. While dental Implants provide an aesthetic solution with oral health advantages, Bridges may offer a more budget-friendly alternative that can be accomplished in a much shorter time frame with little to no pain. Dr. Ellzey can assist you in selecting the suitable tooth replacement option that fits your requirements, preferences, and financial considerations, ensuring a confident smile and enhancing overall oral health.

The information in this article is provided by the office of Dr. Paul D Ellzey, DDS; contact our office at 334-358-4252 to schedule an appointment.