Dental implants are currently the most popular teeth replacement option. Other than restoring your smile, dental implants are meant to improve your overall dental health as well as prevent further loss or damage to your teeth. When it comes to the choice of dental implants, there are mainly two options available: removable and non-removable implants. Each of these presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Based on several factors, including your preference, you can choose a fixed or removable implant. At La Puente Dental Implant Center, we have both options available to ensure that our clients are fully satisfied with the services we provide. If, therefore, you are looking for the best solution for your missing or damaged tooth/teeth, get in touch with us today.
Dental Implants Overview
For anyone that is looking for a more natural-looking solution to their damaged or missing teeth, dental implants are always the best option available. They are a solution that will help maintain your natural look and smile as well as the impact on your overall oral health. Failing to replace a damaged or missing tooth is detrimental to your oral health in that the surrounding teeth will always want to move in to cover the gap that is left after tooth removal. It affects the underlying jawbone as well as causing the weakening of the other teeth, which might eventually lead to their removal.
There are several reasons why a person may miss a tooth or teeth. The most common cause of missing teeth in the country today is accidents. Despite the cause, it is advisable to seek an immediate solution to prevent the misalignment of the other teeth and the problems plus discomfort that comes with it. When other teeth are misaligned, for instance, food can quickly get stuck in between. If the food is not removed, it could lead to the growth of bacteria, resulting in infections that cause the teeth to pull away from the gums. The results are a periodontal disease that could be damaging to your jawbone.
Whether you have one or two missing teeth, dental implants will restore your natural look and feel and help safeguard your remaining natural teeth. Dentists design implants as an artificial root, where dental crowns have been designed to look and work like a natural tooth are placed. The procedure is simple and very useful, after which no one will need to know that you have artificial teeth. Dental implants are not only indistinguishable but also permanent, and will serve you for a very long time with proper care.
One of the most significant benefits of choosing a dental implant is its natural look and feel. People with dental problems may shy away from socializing and smiling, which is why a more natural look and feel is needed to restore the person's smile and esteem. The other advantage is the high rate of success for people that opt to go through the procedure. Depending on the health of the patient, the position of the implant, and the general health of the patient's jawbone, you can be assured of a successful procedure one you decide to have a dental implant.
Above all, dental implants allow you to carry on with your life with no worries. As long as you are maintaining good oral hygiene, you can eat and drink anything after the installation of dental implants.
Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridges
When a person has one or more missing teeth, dentists will provide two main treatment options: dental implants and dental bridges. The problem is that there is not so much information on the two to enable a patient to make an informed choice. The advantage you have in working with an experienced dental care provider is that you can get more information on the two to make the right decision for both your smile and your oral health. The main factor to consider when choosing between a dental implant and a dental bridge is your overall oral health.
When a person has a dental implant, the dentist places an implant in the jawbone at the exact location of the missing tooth/teeth. The implant is designed to bond with the bone tissue to create an artificial root, on top of which an abutment and then false tooth/teeth will be placed. When a person is getting a dental bridge, on the other hand, dental crown/crowns are installed into the natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth/teeth. The crowns are then used to create bridges that will hold an artificial tooth in place. Dental bridges cover the gap, which means that the artificial tooth will not be fixed directly to the jaw.
The reason why a dentist will recommend a dental implant is if he/she feels that there is a need to strengthen your jawbone. Dental implants are mainly loved for their support for better jaw health. After the installation, your jawbone can remain healthy and robust for a long time, which is a significant benefit to your overall oral health. Again, a sturdy jaw means that the shape of your face does not change even as you age. In addition to that, dental implants look natural and better and allow the patient to enjoy the normal functioning of a natural tooth.
The only setback with dental implants is that they require an extensive surgical operation. For that reason, they can result in complications or cause patient anxiety. They also need a long time to heal. It is the point where dental bridges come in.
A lot of people prefer dental bridges over dental implants because dental bridges are relatively quick and easy to install, and the procedure is generally safe. In some cases, the process will be over in just two visits to the dentist's office. Dental bridges are also more economical, which is an excellent advantage for those people that are working with a strict budget.
With that in mind, it is even better to look for a solution that combines both dental implants and bridges as a solution for missing teeth. It brings us to implant-supported dental bridges. These are dental bridges that are supported by dental implants as opposed to dental crowns or other frameworks. It is considered as the most stable and most reliable system as far as replacing missing teeth is concerned. During this procedure, an implant is surgically placed in the gap for every missing tooth to hold dental bridges in position.
Implant bridges require two surgical operations: The first one will be to embed dental implants in the patient's jawbone. The second one will be to place the bridge in place. It is a procedure that can take several months before the patient recovers the full functioning of their mouth.
Fixed Implant Bridges
If a person has more than one missing tooth in the same location, it is advisable to consider a fixed implant bridge as opposed to other teeth restoration procedures available today. It is because this kind of process will do more than replace the missing teeth. It will preserve the jawbone, maintain the functioning of the patient's teeth as well as restore their beauty.
Fixed implant bridges are designed in such a way that they make use of dental implants, which are placed on the jawbone, forming the foundation of the teeth replacement. After that, a porcelain restoration that has been designed to look and function just like natural teeth will be placed on the implant to replace the missing teeth. The porcelain restoration will act as a fixed bridge. The good thing about this kind of remediation is that it protects and preserves the patient's jawbone as well as the surrounding teeth.
Such bridges will also help maintain the facial shape of the patient as well as their smile. Lastly, fixed dental bridges prevent any future complications that could come after dental restoration. For that reason, this is so far the best dental restoration procedure for missing teeth.
There are removable dental bridges too, which can be attached to the patient’s surrounding teeth. Their flexibility lies in the fact that they can easily be removed for cleaning at home. However, fixed dental bridges are usually permanently fixed, with no need for constant removal and fixing back. They act the same as natural teeth. The only time they can be removed is during your regular dental checkups, when your dentist can disassemble and clean them.
Other Differences Between Fixed and Removable Dental Bridges
The main difference between removable and fixed dental bridges, as mentioned above, is removability. Fixed bridges are set in such a way that they cannot be removed from the place any time soon. Again, only a specialized dentist will be able to remove the bridges. It allows them to maintain their functionality for a long time.
However, when it comes to oral hygiene, removable dental bridges are the best. It is because the patient can remove and clean them, as well as the gum and the surrounding tissues every day or even twice a day. This is an assurance that the restorations are well-taken care of, with no chance for the growth of bacteria.
For patients who want a dental restoration that they can get used to, removable dental bridges will not give you that. Even with their flexibility, it will not be easy for you to get used to them. On the contrary, getting used to fixed dental bridges is easy and achievable. It will be uncomfortable in the beginning, but after some time, you will not even realize that you have artificial teeth.
Both removable and fixed dental bridges improve the facial appearance of the patient. The artificial teeth placed over the dental bridges will not only give you back a natural look but also fit well on the gap left by the missing teeth. Again, dental bridges maintain the natural appearance and functionality of your jawbone. There is no way your facial appearance will be affected, even years after the restorations.
Benefits of Fixed Implant Bridges
There are so many benefits that come with dental restorations, including a person's ability to keep smiling even after losing one or more teeth. Fixed implant bridges provide even more advantages when compared to other types of dental restoration procedures. Some of these benefits include:
They Offer a Long-lasting Solution to Missing Teeth
Missing one tooth is easier to deal with, especially if it is a tooth that is hidden at the back of your mouth. However, losing more than one tooth will be devastating. When more teeth are missing, other people are bound to notice and ask questions, which makes it hard for the patient to enjoy their lives and smile freely. The good news is that there is a long-lasting solution in fixed implant bridges that the patient can go for. A long-term solution means that you will not have to remember your missing teeth for a long time after the restoration procedure.
They Maintain the Structure of Other Teeth
When a person loses one or more teeth, the remaining teeth are bound to be affected if immediate and proper care is not taken to prevent it. Dental bridges seem like the best solution to preserve the patient's remaining teeth and ensure that the surrounding teeth stay stable and functional even after losing their counterparts. The most important teeth for any dental patient is the strength and functionality of their remaining teeth, which is what this dental restoration procedure can guarantee. You will no longer have to worry about the health of your remaining teeth after the process.
They Give You a More Natural Look and Feel
It is usually not the end of the world once a person loses one or more teeth. Dentists these days have advanced their skills and expertise to ensure that their patients are better-taken care of than before. Being able to get an artificial tooth that looks, feels, and functions just like natural teeth are something to celebrate about. Implant bridges will not compromise on your looks, feelings, and the functioning of your teeth. Therefore, if the kind of dental restoration you want is one that is as healthy as your natural teeth, this is the way to go.
You Can Eat and Drink Anything With No Worry
Certain types of dental restorations will not allow dental patients to live their lives fully. Some are sensitive, and others not strong enough to withstand the normal chewing and biting. This is what makes implant bridges different. After the restoration procedure, the patient is allowed to eat and drink regularly, as they have always done with their natural teeth. It is because these dental bridges are designed with a strong structure that can withstand any force. The restoration can stay healthy even after years of use, without loosening up or falling off.
Jawbone Preservation
Human jawbones are very important as they determine the stability of the teeth. If you have lost a tooth/teeth to decay, it is likely that the jawbone has also been affected in one way or the other. If not, the jawbone is bound to get affected if proper treatment is not adopted immediately. Implant bridges are a sure way to preserve the jawbone and keep it healthy and stable, for the overall strength of the artificial and remaining teeth.
Again, a healthy jawbone will help maintain an excellent facial shape and smile for the patient. If, therefore, you have some missing teeth, think of a solution that will not only give you back your smile but also preserve your jawbone.
The Cost of Fixed Implant Bridges
For the benefits listed above and many others, fixed dental bridges could be the solution you are looking for to restore your missing teeth. However, for a person that is working with a strict budget, it is good to think of the cost of the entire procedure and other charges that will come up after the restoration. You will realize that other than replacing every missing tooth with an implant, you may be able to pay less if you opt for implant bridges. However, the overall cost of this treatment option depends on the following factors:
- The number of missing teeth - If you have more missing teeth, you will pay more for implant bridge restoration than a person with just a few teeth.
- The material used for the restoration - There are several types of materials that can be used for implant bridge restoration. The most common ones are metal alloys covered in resin, composite resin, and zirconia. each of these has its advantages and disadvantages and is charged differently.
- Difficulties and complexities of the placement - It mainly depends on the location of the missing teeth in the patient’s mouth. A straightforward procedure will cost you less than one that might be difficult or complicated.
- Additional treatment - If you require further treatment, it will cost you more, in the end, to have the restorations done. For patients who have gum diseases, for instance, or other dental issues, your dentist will have to have those treated first before any restorations can be done.
- Your geographic location - There are places where dental restorations are generally more expensive than in other areas. It is advisable to do your research well, to avoid paying more than you should.
Other factors that can determine the cost of your implant bridge restorations include your dentist's training, the type, and the number of implants you want. The price for a fixed implant bridge can go up to $6,500 per missing tooth. The good thing is that the benefits you get to enjoy are more compared to the costs.
Treatment Process for Fixed Implant Bridges
The treatment process for fixed implant bridges starts with the placement of dental implants into the patient's jawbone. The dental implants will act as the roots for the artificial teeth, and also to create a strong foundation for the bridge. The placement of dental bridges has become very easy these days. It is, therefore, possible to have the implants placed on the same day of your surgery. Some patients are also able to leave with temporary-placed dental bridges on their visit to the dentist's office.
During the placement of dental implants, your dentist will replace the roots of your damaged teeth with metal posts that look like screws. The general procedure will depend on the type of implant you prefer and the condition of your jawbone. The surgery can also take several processes to ensure that after their installation, your new roots will provide strong support for the new artificial teeth. Your dentist will give your bone enough time to heal around the implant, which might take several weeks.
Once the implants are fully installed, the next step will be to place the dental bridges to complete the restoration process. The good thing with this type of treatment is that it can be done in the same office. Preparation of the abutment teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing teeth is necessary at this point. The preparation includes shaping the teeth at the point where the bridge will be fitted. Your dentist will give you local anesthesia to make the process comfortable for you.
Follow-up and aftercare are necessary after implant bridge restoration. It ensures that the patient is well-aware of what to expect and that they understand how best to care for their new repairs for long-time service.
Find The Best Dental Implant Services Near Me
Missing teeth will deny you a chance to enjoy your life fully. It is advisable to get a dental exam done as soon as possible, to determine the best solution for your missing teeth. At La Puente Dental Implant Center, we have excellent dental implant services offered by our highly skilled and experienced dentists. We will walk with you throughout the process to ensure that you get back your smile and the functionality of your teeth. Call us at 626-995-0456 if you are in La Puente, and enjoy the best dental restoration services.
