Choosing between dental bridges and implants can be a challenging endeavor, particularly if you are not familiar with the specifics of either treatment option. The purpose of this guide is to provide a comprehensive overview of what each of these treatments entail, the differences between them, how cost-effective they are, how long they last, the materials that are used in each, and the potential savings that can be realized when seeking treatment in Hungary. Let us see the differences between dental bridges and implants.
What exactly is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a restorative dental appliance that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Bridges are typically made of porcelain or ceramic. The bridge, as its name suggests, is meant to fill the space created by the absence of teeth. It is made up of three or more items/crowns. Abutment teeth serve as anchors on either side of the gap, and false teeth, also known as pontics, which are used to fill in the space. Pontics can be made from a wide variety of materials, such as gold, alloys, porcelain, or even a combination of these and other materials.
If you need a bridge for the front area, zirconium is recommended for aesthetic reasons. If you have a tooth gap in the molar region you can either have a zirconium or a porcelain-fused-to-metal bridge. The latter one is more cost effective, however less aesthetic than the zirconium bridge.
Bridges can be placed on implants crews not only on natural teeth.
Pros and Cons of dental bridges
Now we know that dental bridges can be an effective solution for replacing missing teeth.
Like any dental treatment, they come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a straightforward list of the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision:
The pros of dental bridges
- Improved appearance: Dental bridges can restore your smile by filling gaps left by missing teeth, enhancing your facial aesthetics.
- Dental bridges are more affordable and dental implants.
- Restored chewing function: With dental bridges, you can regain the ability to chew and eat comfortably, improving your dietary options.
- Preventing shifting teeth: By filling the gap, bridges help prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting and becoming misaligned.
- Quick procedure: Compared to some other tooth replacement options, such as dental implants, getting a dental bridge is often a quicker process, it takes several days.
- You will have no bone loss except for the area of the tooth gap.
The cons of dental bridges:
- Adjacent tooth preparation: The procedure for dental bridges involves shaping the neighbouring teeth to support the bridge, which may impact their natural structure. There is no need to do that in case of dental implants. This is one of the main advantages of implant supported bridges.
- Potential discomfort: Initially, you might experience some sensitivity or discomfort after getting the bridge.
- Tooth decay risk: Proper oral hygiene is crucial, as bridges can accumulate plaque and increase the risk of decay if not well-maintained.
- They can only last 5-15 years: They may need replacement over time.
- They don’t replace the root of your tooth so bone loss can continue at the position of the tooth gap.
and now let’s see the differences the differences between dental bridges and implants.
What exactly is an implant in the mouth?
A dental implant, on the other hand, is an artificial structure that takes the place of the root portion of a tooth that has been lost. Implants are typically posts made of titanium that are inserted into the jawbone below the gum line through surgical procedures. With the help of dental implants from one tooth up to a whole arch can have replacement teeth.
The pros and cons of dental implants
Dental implants are the most popular tooth replacement option, but like any dental treatment, they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a clear rundown of the pros and cons to help you consider if dental implants are the right choice for you:
The pros of dental implants
- Permanent solution: Dental implants are a long-lasting and durable option that can potentially last a lifetime with proper care.
- Natural look and feel: They closely resemble real teeth, providing a natural appearance and restoring your smile.
- Enhanced chewing function: Dental implants offer excellent chewing ability, allowing you to enjoy a wide variety of foods with confidence.
- Bone health benefits: Implants stimulate the jawbone, promoting bone growth and preventing bone loss.
- There is no damage to the healthy teeth surrounding the dental implant.
- They keep your facial structure so yo will not look older than you are.
The cons of dental implants
- Surgical procedure: Getting dental implants involves a surgical process, which may require some recovery time and discomfort.
- Cost: Dental implants can be more expensive than other tooth replacement options, including dental bridges, at least initially.
- Time-consuming: The entire dental implant process, including healing and integration with the jawbone, may take several months.
- Requirements for eligibility: Some people may not be suitable candidates for dental implants due to health or bone structure factors.
Procedures for bridges and implants – what are the differences?
In terms of the procedures that are required, differences between dental bridges and implants are very significant. Dental bridge placement is a non-invasive procedure that can typically be finished in just two-four visits to the dentist. The dentist files down the teeth next to the teeth gap at both ends and those teeth will be the pillars of the bridges. In other words, in order to have a bridge we have to sacrifice the healthy teeth adjacent to the gap as 30-40% of the tooth material is lost. This is why bridges are advised if the teeth are partly damaged next to the gap otherwise healthy teeth will be prepared.
On the other hand, the process of getting an implant is more complicated. It begins with surgery and continues with a number of follow-up appointments spread out over a period of several months. This is done to ensure proper healing and integration of the implant. In spite of this double travel for dental care Hungary is attractive for US dental tourism patients.
At the beginning of the process a 3d scan is taken and then the surgeon analyses the jawbone structure and defines the position of the screw. The procedure for placement is simple, using a special driller. A hole is drilled in the jaw and the screw is inserted. And after the healing time which is 3-6 month the jawbone grows around the screw. And then the implant is exposed and finally the abutment and the crown is fitted.
Dental implants vs. bridges – Durability
Dental implants are more long-lasting than bridges because they are integrated into the jawbone where natural teeth are missing. Dental implants, can last a lifetime with the right kind of care, while bridges typically need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years.
It is good to know, that crowns and bridges fitted on implants must be changed regularly every 10-15 years. But the lifespan of implants is 40+ years, so they last for a lifetime.
Differences between Dental Bridges and Implants – Implications for one’s oral health
Oral health can be affected differently by bridges and implants for a variety of reasons. Dental implants can help prevent bone loss, which is a common side effect of tooth loss, and they do not require any changes to be made to the teeth that are adjacent to the implant.
On the other hand, bridges have been shown to hasten bone loss beneath the pontic over time, and their installation necessitates the reduction in size of teeth that are adjacent to the gap.
Cost – saving options between dental bridges and implants
When compared to bridges, dental implants typically have an initial cost that is higher than the cost of bridges. However, when the durability over time and the reduced risk of complications associated with dental implants are considered, it is possible that the overall cost over time will be comparable to or even less than that of bridges.
Efficiency in terms of costs
Dental implants may turn out to be a better financial investment in the long run, despite the fact that dental bridges may at first appear to be more cost-effective due to the lower initial cost of dental bridges. A better return on investment may be possible over the long term with implants due to their longer lifespan and lower overall maintenance requirements.
A View from the medical profession
Dental implants are frequently recommended as the best treatment option by dental professionals. They are intended to provide support in a manner analogous to that of the roots of natural teeth, thereby preserving the health of the jawbone, protecting the integrity of the teeth that surround them, and reducing the likelihood of long-term complications.
Dental implants vs. bridges – Components used in the construction of bridges and implants
Porcelain fused to ceramic or metal is the typical material used in the fabrication of dental bridges. The choice of material is determined by a number of factors, including the location and function of the missing tooth, as well as aesthetic concerns and financial considerations.
On the other hand, dental implants typically consist of a titanium post because of its biocompatibility, which promotes fusion with the jawbone. The artificial tooth or crown that is placed on the implant is typically made of porcelain or ceramic, which results in a result that appears to be completely natural.
Opportunities for cost cuts in Hungary – Differences between Dental Bridges and Implants in terms of prices
It has recently come to the attention of dental tourists that Hungary, and particularly Budapest, is a significant destination. When compared to the prices in Western Europe and the United States, the cost of dental procedures in Hungary, such as bridges and implants, can be up to 70% cheaper. Despite this significant disparity in price, there is not a corresponding reduction in product quality.
Dental clinics in Hungary are renowned for their exceptionally high standards, innovative technologies, and highly trained staff members. For additional cost savings and convenience, many medical facilities also provide accommodation and transportation as part of all-inclusive packages for out-of-country patients.
For example an all-on-4 solution, which is a complete bridge retained on 4 implants screws is available form 5,500EUR in Hungary. All-on-4 is a widely known solution for restoring a toothless mouth.
Another example of cost effective solutions for a 3 tooth gap. It can be covered with a 3 unit implant retained bridge which is available from 2,300EUR in Budapest. These prices are very attractive for Western European and US dental tourism patients.
The same gap can be covered with a 5 unit bridge without implants, which is available from 1,500EUR in Hungary.
The other main difference for foreign patients is the number of visits.
An implant based bridge requires at least 2 visits in Hungary, while the bridge solution only takes one visit in Hungary.
In conclusion, when deciding and looking into differences between dental implants and dental bridges, it is essential to gain an understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of each treatment option and tailor your decision to your specific oral health requirements, financial circumstances, and lifestyle considerations. Always seek the counsel of a dental professional to obtain individualized recommendations and to ensure that your choice is as well-informed as possible.
