Dental Implant Services: Not Just For Senior Citizens

When most people think of dental implants, they often assume they are mainly for older adults. However, dental implant services can benefit patients of all ages who are missing teeth, whether due to injury, decay, or genetics. Understanding the differences between dental implants and bridges for tooth replacement can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of both options, focusing on longevity, appearance, and their overall impact on oral health. Call us today to book your next dentist appointment!

What Are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are a long-lasting tooth replacement option where a titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone to act as an artificial root. Once healed, a crown is placed on top, giving the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

While many associate dental implant services with older adults, younger patients can also greatly benefit from them. Whether you've lost a tooth in an accident or due to decay, implants offer a permanent solution that supports bone health and prevents the shifting of nearby teeth.

The Advantages of Dental Implant Services

Longevity: Dental implants are known for their durability. With proper care, they can last a lifetime, making them a more permanent solution compared to bridges. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, dental implants have a success rate of over 95%, with most patients experiencing long-term benefits.

Appearance: Implants are designed to look and feel like natural teeth. Because the titanium post fuses with your jawbone, the implant is stable and will not move. The crown is custom-made to match your surrounding teeth, resulting in a seamless, natural look.

Oral Health Benefits: Unlike bridges, which rely on adjacent teeth for support, implants stand alone. This means that no healthy teeth need to be filed down or altered. Additionally, implants help stimulate the jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining the structure of your face over time. This makes them a great option for younger patients looking for a long-term solution that also promotes oral health.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge, on the other hand, is a prosthetic that fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It typically involves two crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the gap, with a false tooth in between. While a bridge can restore function and appearance, it doesn’t address the root of the issue like an implant does.

The Advantages of Dental Bridges

Cost: For many patients, cost is a major factor in their decision. Dental bridges are generally less expensive than implants upfront. However, it’s important to consider the long-term costs, as bridges may need to be replaced after 10 to 15 years.

Less Invasive: Bridges don’t require surgery, which can be appealing to patients who want a quicker, less invasive solution. The process of getting a bridge typically involves two visits—one for preparing the adjacent teeth and taking impressions, and another for fitting the bridge.

Comparing Longevity: Implants vs. Bridges

When it comes to longevity, dental implant services are the clear winner. While bridges are durable, they typically last between 10 to 15 years. In contrast, dental implants can last a lifetime with good care, as the implant itself becomes integrated into the jawbone. This means that, although dental implant services may have a higher upfront cost, they often end up being the more cost-effective option over the long term.

Appearance: Which Looks More Natural?

Both dental implants and bridges are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, but implants tend to offer a more realistic appearance and feel. Because implants are anchored directly into the jaw, they provide a level of stability that bridges can’t match. There’s no risk of slipping or shifting, and the custom crown on an implant is indistinguishable from a natural tooth. For those seeking the most lifelike replacement, dental implant services are usually the preferred option.

Impact on Oral Health

Perhaps the most significant difference between dental implants and bridges is their impact on your long-term oral health. Implants support jawbone health by mimicking the function of a natural tooth root, which helps prevent bone loss. Bridges, however, do not offer this benefit and may lead to bone deterioration over time. Additionally, bridges require the neighbouring teeth to be filed down, which can weaken those teeth and make them more susceptible to decay or future problems.

The Drawbacks of Implants and Bridges

While dental implant services offer many advantages, they aren’t suitable for everyone. For example, patients with insufficient jawbone density may require a bone graft before an implant can be placed, which adds to the cost and treatment time. Additionally, implants require surgery, and the healing process can take several months.

Bridges, though less invasive, have their own drawbacks. They don’t protect the jawbone in the same way implants do, and as mentioned earlier, they may compromise the health of adjacent teeth. Furthermore, bridges will need to be replaced eventually, adding to the long-term cost.

Which Option is Best for You?

At Millrise Dental Clinic, we offer a range of dental implant services to help patients of all ages restore their smile. If you’re considering a tooth replacement, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of both dental implants and bridges. While both options have their benefits, dental implants services tend to offer superior longevity, appearance, and oral health benefits. Whether you're a younger patient looking for a long-term solution or exploring your options later in life, we can help guide you toward the best choice for your oral health. Call us today to book an appointment!