Can You Replace a Bridge with An Implant?

Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth. However, if you fail to take proper care of your teeth, bacteria can penetrate under the bridge through the crowns leading to decay in your natural or abutment teeth. When your abutment teeth get damaged through decay, the dental bridge will become loose needing replacement or repair. Before the dental bridge is repaired, the Waterford family dentist must treat tooth decay. A dental bridge will not be suitable if tooth decay is severe. So can dental implants replace a dental bridge? Keep reading to find out more.

What Causes Dental Bridge Failure?

• Poor oral hygiene- as mentioned earlier, poor oral hygiene can promote the growth of bacteria that can damage the abutment teeth. When the abutment teeth are compromised, a dental bridge lacks proper anchorage.
• Bad habits- poor oral habits like chewing on pens and pencils and consuming hard and sticky foods, and problems like bruxism can contribute to the failure of a dental bridge. If you have teeth grinding problems, you should discuss them with the dentist who fixed dental bridges in Waterford. They can recommend a custom-made mouthguard to treat bruxism.
• Poor material choice- you should visit a certified dentist who knows the best material for making dental bridges. This is because there are materials that are better for making dental bridges than others.
• Failure to go for checkups- it is essential that you visit the dentist near you for checkups after dental bridge placement. Going for checkups gives the dentist a chance to check if your bridges are okay and if they need any repair or replacement.
• Poor jawbone support- if your jawbone is weak or diseased, it can compromise the stability of your abutment teeth. Poor bone support leads to dental bridge failure.

Can A Dental Implant Replace A Bridge?

Dental implants can replace dental bridges. One reason that makes some patients opt for dental implants in place of a bridge is that dental implants are more aesthetically pleasing. Another reason is due to bridge failure. You should consult with the dentist near you about other replacement options before they replace the bridge.

However, it is essential to note that dental implants require a healthy jawbone. This is because dental implants are fixed on the jawbone, and therefore having a thick jawbone provides sufficient mass to hold the implant in place.

If you don’t have sufficient bone mass, a dental bone graft may be performed to increase the mass. Remember that it will take a few months to build enough mass to support a dental implant.

Before opting for dental implants, ensure you’ve discussed the price of the procedure and the recovery period.

Why Should You Replace Your Dental Bridge with Dental Implants?

• Bridges fail easily compared to implants- dental implants are made of more durable material than dental bridges. The titanium material used to make dental implants makes them last longer than dental bridges.
• Dental bridges compromise healthy teeth- during the placement of dental bridges, the abutment teeth are prepared to ensure the tooth crowns fit well. Reducing the abutment of teeth’s enamel compromises their health, making dental implants a better option.
• Dental implants function like natural teeth- although dental bridges can restore the appearance of natural teeth, they don’t function as well as your natural teeth. On the other hand, dental implants function like your natural teeth and feel natural.
• Dental implants are precise- dental implants are considered the best option for replacing missing teeth because they are precise. Thanks to modern technology that helps dentists place dental implants precisely: something that is not possible with dental bridges.
• You can consume any food with implants- it is not advisable to eat certain foods with dental bridges. For instance, nuts and caramels can damage the dental bridge. On the other hand, you can eat anything with dental implants. Thanks to their sturdy and stable build.

If you desire a more functional and aesthetically pleasing option for replacing your old or damaged dental bridge, dental implants may be right for you. If you need clarification on whether dental implants will work for you, visit The Waterford Dentist. The dentist will examine your oral structure, teeth, and gums and recommend if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.