Missing Several Teeth? Here’s Why Implants Might Be Better Than a Bridge

Missing teeth can do more damage than just to your smile. They affect how you eat, speak, and move your jaw. If you are trying to decide between implants and bridges, you are not alone. Many Woodbridge residents with several missing teeth have reached out to us with this confusion. 

Although both of these procedures replace your missing teeth, they work differently. However, when it comes to suggesting one, our reliable dental practitioner recommends implants over the traditional option. Want to know why? Read this blog till then.

How do They Work?

Bridges work by anchoring a row of false teeth to the natural teeth on either side of a gap. That might work fine if you miss one or two teeth in the same spot, but what if you miss multiple teeth in different areas, or do not have strong adjacent teeth? This procedure gets complicated and less effective.

On the other hand, we place dental implants directly into the jawbone, which act like artificial tooth roots. Our implant specialist uses them to replace individual teeth or even support a full row of teeth, without relying on natural teeth. Once you get them placed at our practice and maintain them, they last for decades and even for life. This means fewer appointments, fewer replacements, and fewer things to worry about.

Jawbone Health

Most people do not realize that the jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to stay healthy. When several teeth are lost, the bone begins to shrink over time, altering the facial structure and complicating future treatments. This issue can be avoided by opting for dental implants, which fuse with the jawbone and keep it active, just like natural teeth would.

Impact on Other Teeth

Preserving what you have left is crucial when you are already missing multiple teeth. While bridges depend on surrounding teeth for support, grinding your natural teeth to hold the bridge in place often weakens them and creates further problems. 

Unlike bridges, implanted teeth do not touch your neighboring teeth. They work independently, thus protecting your remaining natural teeth.

Which Option Offers a More Natural Look and Feel?

Bridges can look good, but when you replace several teeth, they sometimes lack comfort and appearance. As they are placed on the top of the gums, they feel a little bulkier or less natural with time. 

However, our dentist places these titanium posts into the bone, just like natural teeth, and each one is shaped and shaded to blend in perfectly. Thus, you can enjoy a more natural appearance. 

Now that you’ve reached the end of the guide, choosing the right tooth replacement should feel a little more straightforward. If you’re missing multiple teeth, dental implants may be the ideal solution, offering long-lasting support, preserving your jawbone, and restoring your smile’s natural function and appearance. Want to know what to expect next?

Learn more about the full timeline of a dental implant procedure here.

However, you can visit our dental practice to have your oral health evaluated and choose the best option for you. Our team is here to recommend what is right for you and replace your lost teeth to provide realistic results that provide a natural look and feel. Do not wait for the missing teeth to create further dental problems; book your appointment at Pure Dental today!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What happens if I don’t replace multiple missing teeth?
Leaving multiple missing teeth untreated can lead to serious oral health issues over time. The surrounding teeth may shift, your bite can become misaligned, and your jawbone may begin to shrink. This bone loss can change your facial appearance and make future dental procedures more complex. That’s why many patients choose dental implants to maintain long-term oral health and facial structure.

2. Can I get dental implants if I’ve been missing teeth for years?
Yes, even if you’ve been without teeth for a long time, you may still be a candidate for dental implants. However, missing teeth for years may lead to bone loss, which could require bone grafting. Our dentist can assess your jawbone and create a treatment plan that works best for your situation.

3. Are dental implants a good option for seniors with missing teeth?
Absolutely. Age isn’t usually a limiting factor for dental implants. As long as you’re in good general and oral health, you could be an excellent candidate. Many seniors choose dental implants to regain function, smile confidence, and quality of life. At Pure Dental, we’ve helped many older adults in Woodbridge with permanent tooth replacement solutions.