Dental Implants help to preserve tooth-supporting bone that naturally deteriorates when a tooth is lost, preventing further problems in the future.
As a minor surgical procedure, the post is inserted into the jawbone where the missing tooth once was and is left to heal for a set period of time before the tooth-like crown is attached. If you have missing teeth or teeth that need to be extracted and replaced, a dental implant might be the right choice for you. No other tooth replacement option creates a better, longer-lasting solution than dental implants. Implants are typically small, screw-shaped titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth and are covered by porcelain crowns that look and feel just like your old tooth. If ill-fitting, uncomfortable dentures or a retainer with false teeth aren't the right choice for you, ask Woodgrove Family Dentists what we can do to recreate your smile.
| Dental Bridge | Dental Implant | |
|---|---|---|
| Teeth on both sides of missing tooth | If the adjacent teeth have fillings or crowns, then a dental bridge would be a good fix. If the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth are weak, then both the teeth may not be able to support the bridge. For a bridge, teeth on both sides of the missing teeth need to be cut and so if they are healthy teeth, then an implant would be advisable. Consult our dentists at Woodgrove Family Dentists. | If the teeth on both sides where the implant is going to be placed are weak or loose or if the teeth on both sides of the missing tooth are healthy, then the implant is a good option. Consult our dentists at Woodgrove Family Dentists. |
| Maintenance | Abridge needs to be kept clean. If food gets stuck, it could decay the adjacent teeth on which the bridge rests. So, the dentist may end up cutting the bridge to fix that decay. If the decay is not caught early enough, it could end up with a root canal. Gum infection and inflammation could also happen if the area is not kept clean. | An Implant also needs to be kept clean and routine cleaning visits need to be done. It acts just like a tooth with problems of decay. If adjacent teeth have decay, it would be diagnosed easily during X-rays and exam. If not left clean, gum infection could occur causing the implant to fail over a period of time. |
| How often to replace | Bridges often need to be replaced in 5-10 years based on wear and tear, maintenance and hygiene. | Implants usually last for a very long time as long as routine cleaning and preventive measures are taken. |
| When time is the essence | When time is key, bridges are a good option as they can be done in weeks. | Implants usually need longer as first the implant is placed, and then we let it heal, and then, place a crown. This usually takes 3-6 months but may vary with the patient. You will get a temporary for that time being. Consult our dentists at Woodgrove Family Dentists for more questions. |
| Cost | Dental Insurance pays for bridges. | The cost of a bridge and implants are similar. So if you have no insurance or your insurance reimburses at a similar rate, this would be a good option. |
| Health Conditions | If you have taken bio phosphates or have uncontrolled diabetes or blood pressure, then a bridge is a good option as it is minimally invasive. | If you are generally in good health, then implants are a good option. All this varies with patient, so consult our dentists at Woodgrove Family Dentists. |
Dental implant surgery is actually a relatively painless process, with some local anesthesia (about what you'd get for a small filling). Most patients comment how easy and quick the procedure was. But again, everyone is unique and will have different experiences. In our experience, the feedback we receive is that there is minimal discomfort felt throughout the procedure.
Are you looking for permanent tooth replacement in Woodridge, Illinois? Contact Woodgrove Family Dentists and book an appointment. Our phone number is (630) 239-8624. We are dedicated to providing you with exceptional care, which is why we offer various financing and payment plan options as well as extended office hours and Saturday appointments.
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