When tooth loss occurs, the health, structure, and function of the mouth is immediately compromised. Even the loss of just a few teeth (or even a single tooth) puts a patient’s oral health at risk. Because of this, the cosmetic dentists at DeJesus Dental Group agree that addressing tooth loss immediately is extremely important. For patients who have an area of tooth loss between adjacent healthy teeth, a dental bridge is likely the most appropriate dental treatment. For our Bridgeport patients, dental bridges can be supported by either dental crowns or dental implants. It can be difficult to make the decision between these two treatment methods, so our dentists explain each treatment process, as well as the pros and cons of each method so that patients can make an informed decision.
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Crown-supported Dental Bridges
A dental bridge supported by dental crowns is secured to the two healthy teeth on either side of the gap of missing teeth. These adjacent teeth are capped with dental crowns in order to ensure the health and strength of these teeth, which will act as anchors for the dental bridge. Treatment will begin with filing down the adjacent teeth and topping them with dental crowns; the dental bridge (which has been fabricated based on molds of the mouth and teeth) is secured to these dental crowns and will fill the space left by the missing tooth or teeth. Below are the pros and cons of crown-supported bridges:
- Pros: The benefits of crown-supported dentures are the ease and quickness of treatment. The procedure is non-invasive and in most cases treatment will be completed in just two dental appointments that are scheduled a couple of weeks apart. Crown-supported dental bridges are also an affordable option for most patients.
- Cons: The cons of crown-supported bridges is that it requires the alteration and treatment of the adjacent teeth, which are likely to be healthy and secure. In addition, crown-supported bridges do not address the loss of the tooth root, which is important in maintaining a strong, healthy jaw bone.
Implant-supported Dental Bridges
Implant-supported dental bridges are anchored by dental implants, which are small screws that fuse with the jaw bone after surgical placement. Dental implants treatment is a multiple step procedure that involves surgically implanting the implants, attaching metal abutments, and securing dental restorations. Dental implants most closely function as the natural teeth. The pros and cons of implant-supported bridges are as follows:
- Pros: The security and comfort of dental implants is unmatched by any restorative dental treatment. The restorations look, feel, and function as the natural teeth, are very easy to care for, and are the longest lasting restorative treatment. Another benefit is the dental implants ability to mimic the function of the tooth root, stimulating the jaw and promoting healthy bone growth.
- Cons: The largest drawback of dental implants treatment is that it is a lengthy and costly procedure. The entire treatment can take six to 12 months for completion and requires oral surgery. For some, this cost and time commitment is seen as a deterrent for dental implants treatment.
Schedule an Appointment
In order to protect the health and structure of the teeth and jaw, it is vital to address tooth loss. Deciding the best method of treatment can be difficult. However, the dentists as DeJesus Dental Group are here to help. If you have questions about crown and implant-supported dental bridges and are wondering which treatment option may be right for you, schedule an appointment with one of our cosmetic dentists at your earliest convenience. We look forward to hearing from you!