Dental implants are not your only option. However, in the long run, when it comes to missing teeth, failing teeth, or chronic dental problems, dental implants are a more effective solution than dentures and Bridges because they are safe, easy to maintain, and play a vital role in preventing bone resorption (ongoing jaw loss).
For a detailed comparison, we put the different factors together as follows:
Dental implants | Dentures | Bridges | |
Last for | A lifetime* | 5-7 years | 7-10 years |
Preserve healthy adjacent teeth? | Yes | Yes | No |
Transmit force to: | Jaw bone | Adjacent teeth/gums | Adjacent teeth |
Prevent bone loss & preserve facial appearance? | Yes | No | No |
Accelerate loss of adjacent teeth? | No | Yes | Yes |
Require periodic adjustments? | No | Yes | Yes |
* Note that the crow usually lasts about 10-15 years before it may need a replacement due to wear and tear)
Before you make your decision, discuss your options with a dentist for a thorough assessment of your oral condition.