One of the most frequent queries from patients who have lost or have to replace one or several teeth is whether it is better to opt for a prosthesis fixed on the teeth or fixed on a dental implant.
Although in most cases it is recommended to opt for a dental implant, the most appropriate treatment would have to be indicated by a specialist. We will have to search from a correct diagnosis which is the ideal indication in each case. There are factors, such as the lack of bone for example (something that as patients we cannot adequately assess), that can make the implant treatment more complex and we opt for a bridge fixed on the teeth.
In this article we explain the differences between a dental prosthesis and an implant, and the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative, in the event that both are a viable option.
Differences between dental prosthesis and dental implant
Both techniques are used to replace teeth that have been lost or that need to be replaced because they are damaged or broken. However, there some essential differences that we must take into account when choosing one treatment or another. The first is that in order to place a bridge over teeth, we must always have at least one tooth on both sides of the absence, so that they can act as a bridge pillar. If not, we will have to rule out the option of the bridge on teeth.
| Dental prostheses | Dental implant | |
| Materials | Made with acrylic or resin, metal-ceramic or zirconium-metal materials. | Made with titanium. The material of the implant prosthesis may also be like that of the tooth. |
| Aesthetics | They can be very similar to natural teeth. Over the years they can become ugly, since you can see the metal. | They are the option that looks and feels the most like natural teeth. Aesthetics can be compromised by the gum, which is sometimes missing. |
| Functionality | They are safe, but not as safe as an implant, since they can be debonded. | They do not move or fall out, they are firmer and safer, since the cover is screwed to the implant. |
| Independence | They are attached to the adjacent teeth, which means they have to be lowered to make room for the bridge | The cover is placed on the implant, so it does not depend on the adjacent teeth or overload them. |
| Duration | Under the best conditions, they last between 8 and 15 years. The main reason for loss is caries. | If cared for correctly, they can last a lifetime. The main reason for loss is infection of the bone surrounding the implant. |
So, is a prosthesis or a dental implant better?
In most cases, our recommendation is to opt for a dental implant, mainly because in this way we are more conservative with the patient's healthy teeth. Although the cost may initially be higher than that of a prosthesis, its advantages more than compensate for the initial investment:
- The implant, with proper care, can last us a lifetime.
- It is firmer and safer, since it is placed on the bone. In addition, its material allows osseointegration, that is, the bone grows around the implant.
- Their appearance and functionality are like those of natural teeth, so the person quickly gets used to them.
- The intervention is quick and practically painless: with the immediate loading dental implantology, the patient can enjoy the new teeth in just 24 hours.
In summary, the final result, both in appearance and in functionality and durability, are usually comparatively more positive in an implant than in a dental prosthesis. However, as we have already mentioned, we recommend that you go to your specialist to analyze the state of your oral health and what is the most appropriate treatment for your specific case. And if you have any questions or want a second opinion, get in touch. contact us, At AHOA we will be delighted to help you!