Implants vs. Bridges: What is the Difference?
A full-toothed smile is a great way to feel confident. Yet, losing just one tooth, especially at the front of your smile, can make you lose that confident feeling in no time. Fortunately, there are common solutions to missing teeth. The two that you should be on the lookout for are implants vs. bridges.
If you’re wondering just what implants and bridges are, and what solution would best suit your unique smile, keep on reading!
What is a Dental Implant?
You’ve likely heard of a dental implant, but if you’ve never had one, you may not know exactly what getting one entails.
When the underlying structure of a tooth is removed, the neighboring area of that tooth will begin to deteriorate. This includes bone, ligaments, and nerves.
A dental implant will replace this structure with a metal post. This metal post is commonly seen as a titanium metal post. Over time, new bone will grow around the implanted metal. Your dentist will then test the area and if it is secure enough, a crown will be screwed on top of the implant, leaving it permanently in place.
As we’ve detailed above, new bone will begin to emerge around the implanted metal. The benefit of this is its ability to promote healing of bone structures and gums under the teeth. It also reduces any long-term risks of the jaw. If done properly, a dental implant can last a lifetime.
Unfortunately, a dental implant procedure can be pricey. A typical dental implant procedure can cost up anywhere from $1,000 to $3000 USD. If you have multiple teeth that need to be replaced, this can begin to easily exceed $5,000 and up. In the case of multiple teeth needing to be replaced, your dentist may recommend the alternative of a dental bridge.
It’s also important to note that dental implants take significantly longer to heal than bridgework.
What is a Dental Bridge?
Traditional dental bridges are one or more pontics (fake teeth) and are held in place by dental crowns. The dental crowns are cemented onto the teeth adjacent to your missing tooth. There are many different kinds of dental bridges that you could inquire with your dentist about. These include traditional dental bridges, cantilever bridges, Maryland bridges, and implant supported bridges.
Unlike dental implants that can become extremely expensive very quickly depending on the number of teeth you need to replace, a dental bridge is actually an affordable method for replacing missing teeth. Another benefit is that they do not require bone grafting if you have bone loss and bridges are a faster solution to replacing missing teeth.
Does Insurance Cover Dental Implants or Dental Bridges?
Due to the costly nature of dental implants and dental bridges, many insurance companies may be reluctant to cover the costs of these procedures. However, due to the fact that dental bridges are significantly lower in cost, insurance carries will be more inclined to cover that procedure as opposed to dental implants.
If you have questions regarding whether this dental implants vs. bridges is covered by your insurance, reach out to your insurance provider and ask questions. If you find that the treatment(s) are not covered by your insurance, you can always speak to your local Tampa Bay dentist and ask if they have any payment plan options.
Selecting the Best Option For You
Ultimately, discussing your dental options for the replacement of your missing teeth with your dentist is the most effective way to find the best option for you. You can work together with your dentist to weigh your options with your unique dental budget in mind.
If you have questions regarding the replacement of your missing teeth, get in touch with North Pointe Dental Associates. With over 40+ years of dental expertise, we can help you with a treatment plan that will improve the overall health of your teeth and confidence when you smile.
Get in touch with us, today!
