When you are missing a tooth, you need to get a replacement as soon as possible. That’s why you need to call our Honolulu, HI dental office today at 808-797-3680 and schedule an appointment. But should you go for a fixed dental bridge or a dental implant? Both are restorative dentistry treatments that replace a missing tooth. Which one is best for you?

Why A Tooth Replacement Is Necessary

There are people who think replacing a lost tooth is not something to worry about. However, there are several problems you can face with a missing tooth:

  • You could have trouble pronouncing words clearly.
  • It’s harder to chew your food.
  • Your teeth will slide out of alignment without support from the one that’s lost.
  • Your self-esteem is lower because you worry about what others see.

By calling A Downtown Dental Group today, you can be one step closer to finally replacing that tooth and getting your smile back. Our dentists are highly trained in restorative dentistry, so they know how to replace a missing tooth safely and efficiently. Plus, your smile can be complete again.

Two Ways To Replace A Lost Tooth

There are two treatments that can replace a single lost tooth: a fixed dental bridge and a dental implant.

A fixed dental bridge uses a dental crown as a natural-looking replacement tooth. It’s held firmly in place by two other dental crowns. Each is placed on the teeth neighboring the gap, and our dentists will bond the replacement tooth to the other crowns.

A dental implant also uses a dental crown as the replacement tooth. However, it does not use bonding to hold it in place. Instead, the replacement is connected to an artificial tooth root implanted in your jawbone.

Should You Get A Fixed Dental Bridge Or Dental Implant?

But which of these is best for you? Our dentists want you to be an active partner in your dental care. To help you decide which is best, here are how the two restorative dentistry treatments compare.

DURABILITY

If you are concerned about how long these dental restorations will last, then you want a dental implant. How long each lasts does depend on things like your diet and how well you take care of your teeth and gums.

That said, a fixed dental bridge should last 10 years. A dental implant normally lasts 20 years at the least. Dental implants definitely last longer.

HEALTH

When it comes to your dental health, a dental implant again wins out. When you have lost a tooth, you’ve also lost that tooth’s root. Your jawbone depends on that root for stimulation whenever you chew. Lost that root, and your jawbone begins to deteriorate.

A fixed dental bridge does not come with any kind of root, so your jawbone will still deteriorate. But a dental implant comes with an artificial root surgically implanted in your jaw. This provides that stimulation needed to keep your jawbone healthy, making a dental implant the healthier choice.

AFFORDABILITY

If your biggest concern is how much each treatment will cost, then you want a fixed dental bridge. A dental implant requires oral surgery to place the artificial root in the jawbone. Any kind of surgery is less affordable because a lot more work needs to be done.

By contrast, a fixed dental bridge does not require any oral surgery. The replacement tooth is held firmly by two dental crowns. Because of this, a fixed dental bridge is the more affordable option.

CARE

When it comes to maintaining your dental restoration over the years, these two are mostly tied. With a fixed dental bridge, you won’t be able to floss around the replacement tooth. Other than that, there is no special care needed. Just brush, floss, and visit our Honolulu, HI dental office regularly, and your dental restoration should last for years.

Call us TODAY at 808-797-3680 or use our convenient online form to schedule your next appointment for a fixed dental bridge or dental implant. Our dentists take many hours of continuing education to stay current and fresh. Whether you go with a fixed bridge or a dental implant, you will get excellent care from dentists who know how to help you.