There are advantages and disadvantages of each type of tooth replacement and it is important to explore all your options, with the help of our dentists here at Quirke Dental Surgeons.
Advantages:
Implants:
- Preserves gum and bone. No damage to adjacent teeth
- The most cost-effective long term solution
- A very long term solution and high average life expectancy
- An implant is most similar to a natural tooth
Bridge:
- Fixed prosthetic device
- Look, feel and function like natural teeth
- Don’t require removal for cleaning
Dentures:
- Usually less expensive than fixed bridges or implants
Disadvantages:
Implants:
- Initial investment is higher
- Longer treatment period may be required
- Some surgery is required
Bridge:
- The average life expectancy of high quality bridgework is approximately 5-10 years
- Adjacent teeth have to be reshaped to fit a bridge
- Risk of permanent tooth nerve damage and development of abscesses
- Gums and bone often continue to shrink
- If a tooth is extracted, a temporary bridge or denture may need to be fitted for a few months to allow the bone to heal before a permanent bridge can be fitted
Dentures:
- Frequently move about when eating, talking, laughing and smiling
- Can damage the gums
- Average life expectancy of high quality dentures is approximately 5 years
- Gums and bone often continue to shrink
- They can break or be lost
- They can be uncomfortable
- Some people are embarrassed to take them out for cleaning or at night
