If you are missing a single tooth or if you are missing multiple teeth, you know just how much that can affect the overall appearance of your smile. In addition, your ability to eat some foods may be affected and you may experience some speech impediment as well. For this reason, many people who are missing a tooth or multiple teeth visit the dentist to learn about their treatment options. At our Manhattan cosmetic dentistry office, we recommend either dental implants or dental bridges to patients who are missing teeth. We’d like to quickly discuss these two options right now.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are removable dental appliances that are comprised of a single artificial tooth or multiple artificial teeth. These dental bridges are held in place using clasps that are secured to your adjacent teeth, literally bridging the gap or gaps left by a missing tooth or missing teeth. These are good options, especially for aesthetic matters involving missing teeth, and cleaning a bridge is generally easy.
Dental Implants
Dental implants themselves are not artificial teeth. Instead, Manhattan dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed to hold an artificial tooth, dental bridges, or dentures in place. The dental implants are secured into your jawbone and gum tissue, ensuring a secure hold. Because the dental implants are surgically affixed, artificial teeth are less likely to slip, unlike removable dental restorations.
Choosing Between Dental Bridges and Dental Implants
You may wonder which is better: dental implants or dental bridges. Well, a lot of patient appreciate the sturdiness of dental implants and all the benefits that they provide, though getting dental implants is much more expensive than getting dental bridges. In addition, not everyone is a good candidate for dental implants, and hence dental bridges would be a much better option.
It’s important that you discuss these matters with a dentist for a full evaluation of your dental health and your current situation. To schedule a consultation, please contact our Manhattan and Brooklyn cosmetic dentistry offices today.
