How you choose to replace your missing tooth can be a tough decision. Is it better for you to choose a single dental implant or should you choose a crown and bridge? Both achieve your intended goal, but there are differences between the two options. A single dental implant leaves you with a more natural looking smile, but a crown and bridge is a faster and less expensive choice. A bright side of either option is that both offer effective tooth replacements that are easy to care for and clean.
Dr. Denes in Fresno, CA is well informed and happy to help you settle this difficult decision. Schedule your consultation today to discuss a solution to your fixing your missing tooth. Call 559-297-6823.
Dental Implants
Dental implants allow you to maintain a healthy jawbone, while giving you back your beautiful smile. This natural-feeling tooth replacement option doesn’t require that you make any dietary changes an
stabilizes the placement of your teeth. With a single dental implant, you shouldn’t experience any speech issues, because your tooth will fit snuggly into your smile.
The two-part procedure for getting a single implant does take some time but most patients say it’s entirely worth it. First, a biocompatible titanium base is implanted into the jaw, and will need several months of healing time to fuse with the bone. Once it is stable, a porcelain or zirconia
crown will be permanently attached, to replace the tooth you lost.
Dr. Denes will be able to match your dental implant crown to your smile, so there won’t be any differences in the color of your tooth. The only thing people will notice is your new, beautiful smile and your increased self-esteem. Dental implants are durable and long lasting, so that you won’t ever need to replace it in the future. After a few years with a single dental implants, many patients even forget they ever lost a tooth!
Crowns and Bridge
Unlike a single dental implant, a bridge will only cover your gap to restore your appearance and dental function. To create the bridge, Dr. Denes will permanently place two crowns on the teeth surrounding the gap, and attach a prosthetic device to cover the gap where the missing tooth once was. Crowns and bridges can help you maintain the position of your teeth; the bridge stabilizes the teeth around the gap, so they don’t drift into the empty space and upset your alignment. Because they won’t shift, you don’t have to worry about any pain
or discomfort when you chew. Just as with dental implants, bridges are simple to care for. It’s as easy as brushing twice a day and flossing after each meal.
This option is an affordable and effective alternative to dental implants, but it will likely need maintenance in the future. Additionally, because a bridge does not have a stable base in the jaw bone, it may feel different when you chew. This shouldn’t be painful, but it may take some time to get used to.
Whether you decide to enhance your smile with a single dental implant or a crown and bridge solution, Dr. Denes is excited to walk you through this journey. Call our Fresno, CA office today at 559-297-6823.