Dental Implants or a Bridge? Which One is Right for Me?

When you’re missing one or more teeth, it’s important to fill the gap. Installing a prosthetic tooth can prevent your other teeth from shifting, and also makes chewing easier. There are multiple types of prosthetic teeth available, including implants and dental bridges.

What’s a dental implant?

A dental implant in Owensboro and Beaver Dam KY is a type of prosthetic tooth that fills in a gap where there used to be a tooth. Dental implants look like natural teeth, and function like them as well. Dental implants are even fused to the jaw, just like your natural teeth. Dental implants are color matched to the teeth around them, so it’s virtually impossible to tell the difference between an implant and the other teeth.

What’s a dental bridge? 

A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that is held in place by an attached dental crown. The dental bridge sits on the gum, and unlike a dental implant, is not fused with the jaw bone. A dental bridge looks a lot like a natural tooth, and most people would not be able to tell the difference between a bridge and the other teeth in the mouth. Like dental implants, bridges are color matched to the other teeth.

How to Pick the Right Dental Appliance

The right type of dental appliance depends on what tooth is missing, your budget and other factors. Your dentist in Owensboro and Beaver Dam KY can help you decide which type of appliance is right for you. To learn more about dental bridges and crowns, contact Dr. Travis Wilson Family Dentistry to make an appointment.