Appearance
Both bridges and implants hold artificial teeth stable, but bridges include external hardware while implants do not. While implants are anchored to the jawbone with posts inside of the gums, bridges are held in place by modified neighboring teeth. The hardware present on bridges is visible when bridges are present in the front of the mouth, potentially making some patients feel self-conscious. By contrast, implants look as natural as real teeth.
Jaw Bone Health
As soon as teeth are lost, the jaw bone underneath becomes vulnerable to degradation around the missing tooth roots. Furthermore, teeth next to the space may begin to shift location. Bridges can prevent the shifting because they keep artificial teeth in the spaces, but they do not replace the tooth roots. Implants not only prevent shifting but also keep the jaw bone healthy. As a result, implants also minimize risks of further tooth loss.
Oral Hygiene
Brushing and flossing are essential for good oral health alongside visits to our Agoura Hills dentist. Because bridges include external hardware, they foster collection of food particles and bacteria that can be difficult to remove with brushing and flossing. Implants are as easy to brush and floss as natural teeth. However, special tools are available to simplify oral hygiene with bridges.
Another difference between implants and bridges concerns durability. Implants can last a lifetime with proper care, but bridges may last a few decades at best in most cases. At a consultation with our expert in dental bridges in Agoura Hills, patients can learn more about how these tooth replacements differ from each other.