From partial dentures to bridges to dental implants there are several options for replacing missing teeth. Although a traditional bridge is a popular tooth replacement solution for some Montreal dentists, it involves taking away tooth structure from adjacent teeth to attach and support the bridge. So is a traditional bridge worth sacrificing adjacent teeth? It depends. Each case is different, and advances in modern dentistry provide choices for tooth replacement that don’t affect any other teeth.
The Dental Bridge Procedure
A bridge typically consists of two or more custom-made crowns that are connected and cemented to the teeth on each side of the space where your tooth is missing. Replacing a tooth with a dental bridge requires adjacent teeth to be strong and healthy. These teeth must be contoured and reshaped to provide room for the crowns to be attached to them. Although they are protected by crowns, removal of a significant amount of tooth structure weakens the tooth and makes it more susceptible to decay, damage and root canals down the road. A traditional bridge lasts about 7-10 years. Often, when a bridge fails, one or both of the adjacent teeth must be replaced as well.
Benefits of Dental Implants
Dental implants can last a lifetime, help preserve bone structure and don’t have any impact on healthy teeth. While dental bridges are stable and provide decent aesthetics and chewing function, dental implants look, feel and function like real teeth. Your Montreal dentist can evaluate whether you are a candidate for implants and determine which tooth replacement solution will work best for you.
The Cost of a Dental Implant vs. a Traditional Bridge
Many patients opt for a dental bridge to replace a missing tooth because they believe it is a more affordable option. The truth is dental implants are more cost-effective in the long run. A bridge may need to be replaced several times throughout your life, and if you opt to have it removed, the adjacent teeth will require new crowns as well. Although the up-front cost of a dental implant is more, because the procedure is done in phases over several months, your Montreal dentist may offer a payment plan to help you get the care you need.
To find whether a bridge or implant is the best option for you, make an appointment with your Montreal dentist at your Westmount dental clinic. They can provide you with the knowledge you need to make an informed choice and develop a specialized treatment plan that can help you reach optimal oral health.
