Dental Implants vs. Partials and Bridges

There are many ways of replacing missing teeth after tooth loss due to injury or decay, with partial dentures and bridges being two of the many traditional avenues to take. Partial dentures and bridges are cost-effective, which is why many patients are inclined to choose this treatment, and can replace one or several missing teeth in a non-invasive manner. However, while partial dentures and bridges may present a viable teeth replacement solution at the outset, patient should weigh all of their treatment options before selecting what will work best for them.

Dental implants provide a modern and long-lasting alternative to bridge and denture prosthetics that many patients find an attractive treatment option.

Implants vs. Partial Dentures

Getting a partial denture is a simple treatment process that involves taking a mold of your existing teeth so that a replacement tooth or teeth can be created and attached to a metal housing. Patients wear partial dentures like a retainer -- when inserted, the faux teeth align with gaps in your smile to give the appearance of natural teeth.

However, partial dentures do not contribute to improved oral function. Partial dentures can also cause damage to existing teeth over time, as the metal housing exerts force or pressure on healthy dental enamel. Dental implants stand out in contrast, however, by serving as independent teeth replacements that are not removable and help patients regain renewed oral function after treatment.

Implants vs. Fixed Dental Bridges

Bridges provide improvements in function and stability over partial dentures, as they are dental prosthetics that are cemented in place. In general, dental bridges are very long lasting, but they may need to be replaced at some point, due to general wear and tear. While this is normal, it does require that patients receive an all-new dental bridge. Dental implants, however, do not require the same kind of long-term maintenance.

If your implant prosthetic becomes worn down over time, the entire implant itself will not need to be replaced. Utilizing dental implants also does not require that healthy teeth be altered in any way.

Implant Questions? Contact our Office

If you have missing teeth and are debating treatment options for rejuvenating your smile, contact our Berkeley implant dentists for more information. We offer a variety of implant restoration options to ensure that your new smile is aesthetically pleasing and that your new teeth are long-lasting.
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