Existing Patients: (978) 454-9332 | New Patients: (877) 790-5172 |
Advanced cosmetic and general dentistry

Dental Implants vs Crown and Bridge?

Posted on by .

I recently had one of my tooth extracted and I am not going to leave the space open. My dentist said that I could either get a bridge or a dental implant. The cost of the implant helped me decide to go with the bridge, but my dentist says a bridge is not as durable as an implant and it will probably need to be replaced in about 10 years. I’m thinking that she is trying to discourage me from getting the bridge because the amount of the implant is twice the cost and it’s more money for her. Is my dentist right? Vanessa

Vanessa – A dental implant is the most effective means of replacing a missing tooth. It is a permanent form of tooth replacement. It will look and function as a natural tooth, and you care for it just as you do your natural teeth.

A dental bridge lasts an average of ten years, but depending on how well it’s made and taken care of, it can last longer. A bridge requires that the teeth on either side of the missing one be shaved down to accommodate porcelain crowns. An implant requires no work on adjacent teeth. Care must be taken to floss around and beneath a dental bridge.

If your budget permits, you will be thrilled with the completely natural-looking and long-lasting results of a dental implant. If you choose an implant, be sure that a skilled implant dentist is performing the surgery, and ensure that an experienced cosmetic dentist provides the implant crown.

This post is sponsored by Lowell dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.

Can teenagers get dental implants?

Posted on by .

I am turning 16 years old this year. I have several teeth missing because of trauma/abuse. I want to know how old I have to be to get dental implants. I was told that I am too young but it is what I want and I can afford them. Thanks. TP

TP – Dental implants are surgically implanted in your jawbone. The growth of your face and jawbone needs to have stopped for you to be considered as a candidate for dental implants.

Your natural teeth will move as you grow, but the dental implants will not. If the dental implants are placed during your growth period, as your jawbone grows, they can appear to sink into your jawbone and look shorter than your natural teeth. Premature placement of implants can also have a negative effect on the growth of your jawbone near the implant site.

There is no definite age at which growth is completed. Some dentists place implants between on young patients when they are between 19 and 21 years old. X-rays, genetics, and your family history will give an implant dentist clues as to whether or not your jawbone and facial growth are complete.

You can speak with your dentist about other options for temporarily replacing your teeth until you can receive dental implants.

This post is sponsored by Lowell cosmetic dentist Dr. Michael Szarek.