Your Ontario Invisalign® Provider
What are dental bridges?
These fixed dental appliances literally "bridge" the gap left by missing teeth. These tooth replacements can replace one or more missing teeth. Since they are permanently attached to the teeth on either side of the gap, unlike dentures, they can only be safely removed by a dentist. They are also known as permanent partial dentures.
How to care for your dental bridges
Once the dentist has placed your dental bridge, you can treat it the same way you'd treat your natural teeth. Your bridge should last for many more years if it's maintained properly with regular brushing and flossing. Don't forget to book regular checkups with your dentist.
What are dental implants?
Our dentists in Deep River can place a dental implant surgically into the jaw bone to act as an artificial tooth root and to replace missing teeth. This small rod is made from titanium, a type of metal that has the ability to form bonds with natural bone, making it a stable, secure foundation for an artificial tooth. A dental crown (cap) will then be placed on top of the implant to serve as the artificial tooth replacement.
When paired, the dental crown and implant have a very similar look and feel to a natural tooth.
How to care for your dental implants
Like with bridges, you should take care of your dental implants just like your natural teeth. This includes a strong brushing and flossing routine, and regular visits to the dentist.
How do I know which option is right for me?
Dental implants and dental bridges both have their advantages, and the best option for any given person will depend on that person's oral health needs as well as his or her financial situation.
The placement of dental implants is significantly more invasive than the placement of dental bridges. However, dental implants can often appear and feel more natural than dental bridges.
In addition, for the dental implant procedure to be successful, you must have a sufficient volume of jaw bone. If you don't have enough bone in your jaw, you may still be able to get an implant, but you would need to undergo a bone grafting procedure first to ensure that the implant could be supported. As a result, the implant process would take longer and be somewhat more invasive.
At the end of the day, the only way to determine which tooth replacement option is best for you is to consult with your dentist.