How do I decide whether to get affordable dental implants, a bridge, or regular dental implants? I was given all three options to replace my top front teeth but I’m having trouble deciding. My dentist said that he would really recommend a bridge because it’s in the middle of being affordable and durable. But I had a bridge before and it didn’t last long and the teeth in it became loose. Plus it never really fit right.
Of course I’m concerned about the cost but I don’t want something cheap that is going to wear out in a few years and need to be replaced. Even though affordable dental implants cost more if that’s the way to go, I just want someone to tell me. Thank you. Siobhan
Siobhan – Whenever teeth need to be replaced, it’s good to think about their position and how much those teeth are involved in the force of biting, tearing, and chewing.
How Affordable Dental Implants Compare to Other Options
- Dental bridge – Front teeth are directly involved in the chewing process, so they should be able to withstand a lot of force. A dental bridge will eventually weaken or loosen with the force that comes with biting and chewing. It isn’t your best option for front teeth. It’s understandable that the teeth in your dental bridge started to loosen.
- Affordable dental implants – These are also referred to as mini implants, are used to support a denture. They are not designed to take the impact of biting and chewing with front teeth. Affordable dental implants definitely wouldn’t be a long-term solution for replacing your upper front teeth. Sometimes they are used to replace a lower, front tooth.
- Traditional dental implants – These fixtures are like natural tooth roots in terms of size and durability. They are the strongest, longest-lasting option. It is possible to replace each tooth with a dental implant or to support a dental bridge with implants. This solution would not need to be replaced in a few years. Depending on your age, traditional implants can last a lifetime.
Schedule a consultation with one or two experienced implant dentists who can explain your options and what you can expect from each of them. Ask each dentist about:
- His or her training and credentials
- How many cases like yours he or she has completed
- Photos of actual patient cases similar to yours
This post is sponsored by American Board-certified prosthodontist and Naperville implant dentist Dr. Anthony LaVacca.
