For people who are missing one or more of their teeth, have healthy jaw tissue, and are otherwise good candidates for dental implants, we recommend implants over dental bridges every time. Here are some reasons why:

• Dental Implants last longer - The majority of dental bridges do not last a lifetime, and are very costly when they need to be replaced. If the crown portion of your implant is damaged, only that single crown needs replacing, whereas a bridge will likely require three crown replacements.

• Dental Implants will maintain your existing jaw bone - the jaw bone structure surrounding a missing tooth will inevitably deteriorate and atrophy unless it receives regular stimulation from chewing. Atrophied jaw bone structure can then lead to negative changes in your facial contours, not to mention further dental complications. Dental bridges will not provide the stimulation necessary to maintain healthy jaw structure.

• Elimination of future dental complications – Since the titanium and porcelain that make up an implant will not decay, you will never have to worry about cavities, root canals, or other dental problems with your implant as you would with a dental bridge.

• Versatility - Implants can be placed anywhere along the jaw line without the necessity of having teeth on both sides to be fastened to. Implants also do not require that the structural integrity of adjacent teeth be compromised – as is the case with bridges.

• Hassle-free maintenance - Brushing and flossing around a bridge can be frustrating. Since your implant will not be bracketed to an adjacent tooth, you will be able to brush and floss your implant just as you would a regular tooth. Floss threaders will be unnecessary.

• Dental Implants are more cost- effective in the long term – Many prospective implant patients are turned away from implants due to the higher initial cost. Millions of cases have proven, however, that implants cost far less than dental bridges in the long run.

For those individuals who are not good candidates for implant dentistry, dental bridges are usually the next best option. Only a thorough examination by a qualified, experienced cosmetic dentist will be able to determine whether you are a good candidate for implants. If you live in Southern Oregon, are missing one or more teeth, and would like to look into getting implants, please contact us today to arrange a consultation.