As a mom, it can be challenging to accomplish all your responsibilities. Juggling kids, work, and household tasks often means putting your own needs on the back burner. If you’re not careful, you might wake up one day realizing you’ve got a missing tooth or two. Luckily, you can choose between a dental bridge or a dental implant to replace natural teeth and restore your smile.
If you’re wondering which of these procedures fits you best, you’re in luck. This article breaks down the key considerations when choosing between these two popular tooth replacement options.
The Basics: Understanding Bridges and Implants
Before we proceed to the nitty-gritty, let’s quickly refresh our knowledge about dental bridges and implants. This will help you grasp the upcoming comparisons more easily.
Dental bridges are less invasive
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that literally “bridges” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) and a false tooth or teeth in between. Bridges are typically made from porcelain fused to metal or ceramics.
An implant is a surgical procedure
On the other hand, a dental implant procedure involves surgically placing an artificial tooth root into the jawbone, which then fuses with the bone over a few months. Once it’s fully integrated, a replacement tooth or crown is attached to the implant. The implant post provides a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth.
Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s explore the factors that you, as a mom, should consider when deciding the best tooth replacement solution. You can also compare bridge vs implant options by weighing the pros and cons with your dental professional.
Cost Considerations: Budgeting for Your Smile
This is likely on top of your concerns, especially when you’re managing a household budget. Let’s compare these dental procedures objectively to help you decide.
A dental bridge is typically covered by insurance
Initially, bridges are often less expensive than implants. They may be covered by dental insurance, which can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. This can be a big plus if you’re working with a tight budget or if your insurance doesn’t cover implants.
However, they last between 5 to 15 years, depending on your oral hygiene and lifestyle habits. They may need to be replaced or repaired over time, which means additional dental visits and expenses in the future.
Dental implants are more cost-effective
Implants, while more expensive upfront, can be more cost-effective in the long run. They’re durable and can last a lifetime with proper care, potentially saving you money on replacements or repairs down the line. However, the initial cost can be a hurdle, especially if you’re paying out of pocket.
Think about your current financial situation and long-term dental health goals when working on your budget. Are you able to invest more now for potential long-term savings, or do you need a more budget-friendly option in the short term?
Time Investment: Balancing Your Schedule
According to the 2022 Canadian Community Health Survey, only 68% of women visited their dentist a year prior, slightly higher than the 62% of male participants. Being a busy mom, the time required for each procedure and the healing process can significantly impact your decision. But how do these options stack up?
Bridges require shorter healing times
A traditional dental bridge procedure typically requires two to three visits over a couple of weeks. The first visit involves preparing the abutment teeth and taking impressions. The second visit is for fitting and cementing the bridge. Sometimes, a third visit might be necessary for adjustments.
Implants take months
Dental implants, however, require a more extended process. The initial surgery to place the implant is followed by a healing period of several months. After this, you’ll need another minor surgery to place the abutment, followed by the final crown placement. While the total treatment time is longer, the actual time spent in the dentist’s chair might be less than with bridges.
Study how these timelines fit into your busy schedule. Can you manage multiple short visits, or would you prefer fewer visits spread out over a longer period?
Impact on Surrounding Teeth: Preserving Your Smile
Your natural teeth are precious, and preserving them should be a priority. Let’s look at how bridges and implants affect the teeth around them.
Dental bridges may damage adjacent teeth
Bridges require the alteration of neighbouring healthy teeth to support the prosthetic. This means filing down these teeth, which can make them more vulnerable to decay and may require root canals in the future. If the bridge fails, it can potentially damage these supporting teeth.
Implants don’t require adjustments on your healthy teeth
On the other hand, implants don’t affect the surrounding teeth at all. They’re self-supporting and integrate with your jawbone, leaving your natural teeth untouched. This can be a significant advantage in maintaining your overall oral health.
Think about the condition of your surrounding teeth and your overall dental health goals. Are you comfortable with altering healthy teeth, or would you prefer to keep them intact?
Oral Care and Maintenance: Fitting into Your Routine
Let’s be real. As a mom, you’re probably already reminding your kids to brush and floss. Your dental care routine should be manageable too.
Bridges need extra cleaning tools
Bridges require special care when it comes to cleaning. You’ll need to use floss threaders or special brushes to clean underneath the bridge, which can be time-consuming. There’s also a risk of decay if food particles get trapped under the bridge.
Caring for implants is simple
Implants, once healed, can be cared for just like your natural teeth. Regular brushing and flossing are all that’s needed. This simplicity can be a big plus when you’re already juggling a million other tasks.
Consider how each option would fit into your daily routine. Are you able to commit to the extra care a bridge requires, or would you prefer the simplicity of caring for an implant?
Comfort and Natural Feel: Enjoying Your Smile
Let’s talk about comfort and how natural your new tooth will feel. After all, you want to be able to smile, laugh, and enjoy life without worrying about your teeth.
Bridges take time to get used to
Bridges can feel a bit bulky at first, and some people never quite get used to the feeling of having multiple teeth connected. However, modern bridges are designed to be as comfortable as possible, and most people adapt quickly.
Implants feel more natural
Implants, once fully healed, feel and function just like natural teeth. You won’t be able to tell the difference between your implant and your other teeth. This can be a huge confidence booster, especially if you’ve been self-conscious about your missing tooth.
Think about how important comfort matters to you. Are you okay with a slight adjustment period, or do you want something that feels like your own tooth from day one?
Making Your Decision
Ultimately, choosing between a dental bridge and an implant is a personal decision that depends on several factors. These considerations may vary, but for moms, the most essential considerations include cost, time, and long-term goals.
Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice for one mom might not be ideal for another. It’s always a good idea to consult with your dentist to find the perfect fit. Whatever choice you make, remember that you’re taking a positive action on your health. And that’s enough reason to smile about.
