23% lose their teeth between the age of 45-50 years, 34% between 50-55 years and 42% after crossing 55 years. 

When you lose a tooth, it is essential to get a proper replacement to keep the rest of your teeth aligned. 

Without proper treatment you can experience infections, difficulty in speaking, eating and a shift in the remaining teeth. 

And ah the age-old debate- dental implants versus dental bridges. 

It's a decision that many of us will face at some point in our lives. Whether you're missing a single tooth or several, finding the right solution for your smile is crucial. So, let's break it down, shall we? 

Dental Implants Vs. Bridges 

Dental Implants and bridges both give a natural look, but they come with their own benefits and drawbacks. Below you’ll find the pros and cons of both implants and bridges, from this guide you will find what is best for you. 

Dental Implants Pros

1. Durability and Longevity

Dental Implants are built to last. Made from biocompatible titanium, they fuse with your jawbone, providing a sturdy foundation for your replacement tooth. 

2. Natural Look and Feel

Implants just look and feel like your teeth. No gaps in uncomfortable appliances, just a seamless smile that boosts your confidence.

3. No Impact on Adjacent Teeth

Dental implants don't rely on adjacent teeth for support, which means your surrounding pearly whites get to stay in their original, untouched state. 

4. Improved Speech and Chewing

Because implants function just like real teeth, you can speak and chew with confidence. No more worrying about slurred speech or avoiding your favourite food. 

Cons

1. Cost

The initial investment might be higher compared to bridges, but remember, you're investing in a long-term solution. 

2. Time-Intensive Process

It is a time-intensive procedure- Surgery, healing time and crown placement takes multiple steps and often several months from start to finish. 

Dental Bridges

Dental Bridges are Easier In comparison with implants, getting a dental bridge is much faster. Most likely only two visits will be necessary: one for preparation and one for placement - you'll soon have your new smile. 

• Cost-Effective

Bridges tend to be more budget-friendly up-front, making them an appealing solution for those in search of faster, less costly solutions. 

• Faster Procedure

Dental bridges have long been utilized as an effective solution to replacing missing teeth, and have an established track record. They can provide an easy, safe method of replacing missing tooth gaps. 

Dental Bridges Cons

While dental bridges do have their advantages, they also come with some drawbacks: 

• Impact on Adjacent Teeth

To support a bridge, the teeth on either side must be filed down and crowned; this permanent process may compromise otherwise healthy teeth. 

• Bridges Have Limited Longevity

Although bridges can last a considerable amount of time when properly maintained, their lifespan usually falls between 10-15 years. Replacement may become necessary over time. 

As Bridges Don't Stimulate Jawbone, There Is Potential for Bone Loss Over time, bridges may cause bone loss that results in altered facial structures. This may change facial contours. 

Conclusion

Now you know all there is to know about dental implants and bridges - their details vary widely depending on individual needs, budget and preferences. 

Implants could be your ideal long-term, natural-looking solution if you have both patience and the budget to spare. 

Bridges may provide an easier, quicker, more cost-effective option. Be sure to speak with your dentist prior to making any decisions and show off that stunning smile!