So you’ve lost a tooth–or a few teeth–and you need to decide how you want the tooth replaced. In the past, there was no choice. Replacing a lost tooth, or a few lost teeth in a row, required a dental bridge. With modern dental materials and technology, Dr. Horblitt offers patients a choice when replacing lost teeth: dental bridges or single implants.
(If you’re ready to make an appointment with Dr. Gary Horblitt, a respected general dentist and periodontist, call our Fairfield office today at 203-335-1011.)
We believe the adage “Knowledge Is Power!” The more you know about dental bridges and implants, the more confident you’ll feel making a decision about your dental prostheses (replacement tooth or teeth). In today’s blog, you’ll learn about the differences between dental bridges and single implants, as well as the pros and cons of each. We’ll cover:
- Description of Prostheses
- Composition of Prostheses
- Procedures
- Longevity of Prostheses
- Treatment Risks
Descriptions
Dental bridges consist of one to three teeth, set on a base. Often, the base mimics the appearance of gum tissue. Unlike dentures, bridges are fixed, or immovable. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Crowns on both ends of a dental bridge attach to healthy teeth for stability.
A single dental implant replaces one tooth, while few implants can anchor a bridge that replaces multiple teeth in a row. Implants are small, surgically placed, biocompatible metal screws. Each implant is fitted with an abutment that connects the replacement tooth (pontic) to the implant screw.
Composition
The bases of dental bridges are usually made of acrylic, though they may be fabricated with metal, porcelain, ceramic, or a metal alloy. In some cases, a bridge base may be made of a combination of these materials. Our dental bridges are made in a trusted, US-based dental lab.
Ask about a flexible acrylic base for an all-natural look and comfortable fit.
Replacement teeth, on a bridge or for an implant, are made of ceramics, porcelain, composites, or zirconium. Creating replacement teeth, or pontics, is an artistic pursuit involving proper texturing, layering, and shading for the most authentic appearance. All of our pontics are fabricated in a trusted, US-based dental lab.
Implants are made from biocompatible metals like titanium, zirconium, ceramic, or gold or cobalt-based alloys. Materials used to fabricate dental implants perform well in the human body and have a 2-10% rejection rate. (Note that smoking increases the risk of rejection.)
A number of manufacturers make implants, so Dr. Horblitt will select the best implants for your case.
Procedures
To secure dental bridges, Dr. Horblitt prepares the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, so they can receive crowns. He then applies permanent dental adhesive and sets the bridge in place. In only a few minutes, the adhesive will cure. For the first weeks, we advise you to use sensitive toothpaste, refrain from eating hot or frozen foods and beverages, and of course, follow your post-op instructions.
Placing a dental implant requires oral surgery in our office. Dr. Horblitt will make certain you’re comfortable with the anesthetic and/or nitrous oxide before he begins. Each implant can take up to two hours to install. Dr. Horblitt will have determined the best angle for your implants, then use a dental drill to create an opening for the implant. He’ll then set it in place.
You may wear a temporary bridge during healing, if necessary. Over nine or more months, your jawbone will integrate with the implant, forming a solid anchor for your replacement tooth or bridge. Then, you will return to our office for two procedures.
First, Dr. Horblitt will remove overgrown gum tissue to reveal the implant heads. He’ll secure abutments to each post. Once your gum tissue heals (in one or two weeks), we will permanently affix the single implants or dental bridge. You’ll leave this appointment with your new teeth, new smile, and new outlook!
Longevity
Dental bridges may endure for five years or the rest of your life, depending upon your lifestyle factors and habits. If the bridge loosens, wears, or otherwise fails, you’ll need a new one.
Dental implants can last a lifetime. Crowns and pontics need replacement every 10-20 years.
Risks
Most of the risks with a dental bridge have to do with the crowned teeth. If the seal between tooth structure and crown is compromised, bacteria will invade and cause tooth decay. Other risks include bite problems (poorly fitted bridge), infection, and allergic reactions to materials.
Dental implant surgery also has risks. All surgeries do. That’s why seeing a prosthodontist has advantages. Dr. Horblitt’s doctoral education and professional experience give him the ability to design a plan for the precise placement of your implants. The angle, depth, and location are important factors.
Implant risk factors include nerve damage, jaw injury, damage to other teeth, sinus issues, infection, or allergic reaction to materials. Of course implant failure is a 2-10% risk, as well.
Maintaining a twice-daily oral hygiene regimen is important. Both crowns and implants can fail if gum disease develops.
Need Dental Bridges? Call Dr. Horblitt!
Don’t hide your smile or struggle with chewing. Replace lost teeth with dental bridges or implants. Fairfield prosthodontist Dr. Gary Horblitt looks forward to meeting you and discussing the future of your smile. Call us today at 203-335-1011 to reserve your personal consultation.
