If I’ve only got to replace one tooth, is it better to get a dental implant or a dental bridge? I hear implants are better, but that means surgery. I can’t decide. It doesn’t help that I’m furious with myself for not taking care of my teeth to begin with.
Candace – Philadelphia
Candace,
There’s a common saying that we never appreciate what we have until we lose it. That’s very true of teeth as well. Though sometimes you can do everything right and still lose a tooth, situations like this sure make us more diligent with the rest of them. But, we need to move on from here and figure out what to do with the missing tooth.
You’re right that dental implants are the better replacement. They’re permanent. They give an orthotic root so there’s no loss to your jawbone. They’re completely stable making eating and oral hygiene a breeze. Yes, dental implants are a surgical procedure, but if it helps put it in perspective, you’re getting a tooth replacement that you want to last for the decades. This is your best option, if you’re a good candidate.
That being said, there are times a dental bridge makes more sense. If the adjacent teeth need work, then you could be knocking out two birds with one stone: getting a prosthetic tooth while crowning the other affected teeth.
Don’t beat yourself up too much about past mistakes either. Moving forward just remember, “You don’t have to brush all your teeth regularly, just the ones you want to keep.”
This blog is brought to you by Dr. Mike Mavrostomos.