408-740-5317
Before you invest in a tooth restoration treatment, it’s important that you know all of your options. Currently, the 3 most common tooth replacement treatments are dental implants, dentures, and bridges.
Dentures
You’ve probably already heard about dentures. There are a few different kinds of dentures. Dentures will either partially or fully attach to the arch of your gums. The
effectiveness of dentures depends on how well they fit onto your gums. The life-span of a set of dentures is typically 5-7 years.
Traditional removable dentures can be a bit difficult to wear. Many patients complain that they don’t feel secure, as they constantly move in their mouth. People with upper dentures also often complain that the palate of their mouth is covered, so they aren’t able to taste their food. The main problem with dentures is that there is nothing anchoring them into the mouth.
Why Choose Dental Implants Over Dentures?
Dental implants are the most successful tooth replacement treatment because they offer a better quality of life. They simulate natural teeth. They’re directly anchored into your gums, permanently fixed, and you don’t have to worry about them falling out on the dinner table during a heated discussion. There are many studies that show the long-term success of dental implants.
Since dentures aren’t attached to your jaw, you’ll still suffer from bone loss and shrinkage in your jawbone. With dentures, you’ll also need to worry about what you’re eating. With dental implants, you can go back to eating all the Buffalo Wild Wings that your heart desires.
Dentures also tend to look less natural, and more people will be aware of your tooth loss. Also, as mentioned previously, dentures only last 5-7 years, dental implants will last the rest of your lifetime. The amount of money you spend replacing your dentures over the years will add up, while dental implants are a one time investment.
Bridges
Dental bridges are typically used to replace a single tooth. A bridge is made of a “filler tooth” that fills the space of the missing tooth that’s attached to two crowns. The “bridge structure” are typically made of porcelain and bonded by the two crowns onto the surrounding teeth.
In order for your crowns to fit comfortably, the neighboring teeth will need to be sanded down. Bridges tend to have better reviews than traditional dentures at providing the ability to speak clearly and eat functionally. However, they do have some reported negative side-effects, and the lifespan is only 5-15 years.
Why Choose Dental Implants Over Bridges?
The biggest fault of dental bridges is that decay can form under the crowns of the bridge. It’s much more difficult to maintain good hygiene with dental bridges because they’re a nest for bacteria and you can’t naturally floss them. Patients who opt for bridges will have to use a special tool to get food from under the bridge.
Dental implants stop further tooth loss while dental bridges actually expedite the loss of other teeth. It’s not uncommon for the supporting teeth to become decayed and the bridge to fail. When dental bridges “go bad,” you’ll actually lose the teeth that are supporting the bridge. Not to mention, with dental implants you won’t have to cut down the neighboring teeth.
Bridges have also been reviewed to look unnatural. They’ll help you eat and improve your speech, but oftentimes crowns don’t match up with the gum line, leaving patients feeling disappointed in the aesthetic appearance.
What’s the Opportunity Cost?
At Contemporary Dental Arts, we understand that the average patient wants the most affordable solution for tooth loss. Initially, when comparing dental implants to dentures and dental bridges, it might look like dental implants are the most costly treatment. However, dentures and dental bridges require a lot of expensive upkeep, cleanings, and will eventually need to be replaced.
A good set of dentures is going to cost you anywhere from $700-1,800, multiply that by the amount of replacements you’ll need for the rest of your life, and you’ll actually end up spending more than you would for dental implants. A good dental bridge will cost you anywhere from $2,100 – 4,500. Add that cost to special cleanings and an eventual replacement, and you’re left with a hefty bill.
To learn more about the financing and the cost of dental implants at Contemporary Dental Arts visit our cost and financing page.
Embark in Your Well-Being Today
Choose the permanent and successful tooth restoration treatment. Dental implants have unrivaled durability, longevity, and aesthetic advantages over removable bridges and dentures. Invest in a tooth restoration treatment that will last a lifetime. When it comes to a permanent tooth restoration treatment, you can afford to get attached to dental implants. Schedule an obligation free consultation with Dr. Cooper today at our San Jose, CA office.
