If you are missing teeth, you have a few different options available to you. If you are missing most of your teeth, it might make sense to get dentures. If you are only missing one or a few, though, a dental bridge or a dental implant are most likely your best options.
Many people wonder what the difference is between a bridge and an implant, and which one is better for their unique situation. The best way to decide is to have an in-person consultation with Dr. Schmid, but so that you can have a good idea of what each treatment entails before your consultation, we have listed out some of the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment below.
Schedule your consultation by calling Dr. Schmid at 512-329-5967 today.
When to Choose a Dental Bridge
A dental bridge has many benefits, including:
- Improve the look of your smile
- Prevent shifting and weakening of adjacent teeth
- Improve oral health
In addition, dental bridges are long-lasting, natural-looking, and comfortable. However, one thing that a dental bridge cannot do is prevent bone loss through the replacement of a tooth root. If you are only missing one tooth, this may not be a big deal; however, if you are missing multiple teeth, the bone loss can eventually lead to jaw collapse. This is often seen in elderly men and women with full non-implant-secured dentures.
Dental bridges are less expensive than dental implants, so if finances are a major concern, you may want to opt for a bridge instead of an implant. However, over time, an implant will likely be a better investment. Talk to Dr. Schmid for an honest assessment about which treatment would be better for your individual circumstances.
When to Choose a Dental Implant
The main advantage of a dental implant is that it replaces your natural tooth root, which in turn helps prevent bone loss in the jaw. Implants are also the most stable and durable option for replacing missing teeth. However, there are some considerations to take into account before choosing to have a dental implant, such as:
- Smokers have a high rate of implant failure
- Implants require a surgical procedure
- Implants tend to be more expensive than other options, and are not covered by insurance
If you are a good candidate for an implant and Dr. Schmid believes it is the best choice for you, but you are concerned about the expense, we do offer financing plans to help you afford the procedure. During your consultation, we will discuss payment options and let you know exactly how much any given procedure would cost.
Schedule Your Missing Tooth Consultation Today
If you are missing teeth and want to take the first step towards restoring a beautiful and healthy smile, don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Schmid at Contemporary Cosmetic Dentistry by calling 512-329-5967 to schedule your consultation. We serve patients in and around Austin, Bee Cave, and Lakeway, Texas.