You’ve lost a tooth, want to replace it, but you’re unsure which option to choose. Fortunately, you don’t have to make an immediate decision, but restoring your smile at some point is vital.
When you lose a tooth, you compromise your jawbone. Without the tooth root to nurture viability, the bone deteriorates over time. In some cases, if you wait too long to replace the tooth, you may need a bone graft to hold a dental implant.
Implants and Dental Bridges in Indianapolis: Choosing the Right Option
Dental Implant
A dental implant is a titanium post we surgically implant in your jawbone. This post integrates into the bone and behaves like a natural tooth root. Your dentist caps this implant with a custom dental crown that replaces your missing tooth.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a one-piece prosthetic that replaces one or more teeth and is secured between dental crowns. Your dentist prepares and caps the tooth on either side of your smile gap, and the bridge teeth fill the space.
Comparing Tooth Replacement Options
Dental Implants offer the following benefits:
- Protect the jawbone from deterioration
- Do not interfere with neighboring teeth
- Can last decades or even a lifetime
The dental bridge, unless it’s an implant bridge, requires cutting or etching the anchoring teeth for crowning. Additionally, the bridge has a shorter lifespan than most dental implants (typically 10 years or more). Like the dental implant, it is a fixed solution to tooth loss.
Bridge and Implant Upkeep
Dental implants require only brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups. The same maintenance you would afford to natural teeth.
Dental bridges should be cleaned with a special toothbrush and floss threader, or with water flossing. It’s important to clear debris from the gumline to prevent oral health complications, especially in the anchoring teeth.
Are You Considering a Bridge or Dental Implant in Indianapolis?
For more information or to schedule a consultation with the dentist, contact us today at (317) 359-8000. You can also book online.
We work with financing through CareCredit.