Should you choose a crown or bridge or dental implant after tooth loss? Here is the answer!

There are two common methods for restoring missing teeth. One is to grind down the adjacent teeth on both sides and then replace them with three crowns, commonly known as crown-bridge restoration; the other is to implant a single tooth with an independent crown. Which one should we choose?
What is the difference between crown and bridge restorations and dental implants?
Dental implants are artificial metal roots placed in the bone to fix the crown. The structure of dental implants is similar to that of real teeth and can be used alone. If the implantation and maintenance techniques are good, they can be used for a long time. However, porcelain teeth require the adjacent teeth to be ground flat and fixed to the adjacent teeth before they can be used normally, which will cause greater pressure on the adjacent teeth.
It's clearer to look at the picture


Are dental implants better than porcelain teeth?
Implant treatment is indeed a good choice, with little damage to adjacent teeth. However, the treatment period of dental implants is relatively long and the cost is slightly expensive, so you need to choose according to your own situation. It is recommended to choose dental implants of better quality,because teeth are to be used continuously, and the better the quality, the better the effect.
Choosing dental implants varies by age. How to choose dental implants at different ages?
Children and Adolescents (Under 18)
Timing: Implants are typically not recommended until jaw development is complete (late teens).
Alternatives: Consider space maintainers for missing teeth.
Young Adults (18-35)
Health and Bone Density: Most are good candidates as jaws are fully developed. Imaging is essential to assess bone density.
Lifestyle Considerations: Evaluate oral hygiene habits and lifestyle factors that may impact healing.
Middle-Aged Adults (36-55)
Health Evaluation: Assess chronic conditions that could affect implant success.
Bone Quality: Ensure sufficient bone density; bone grafting may be necessary.
Older Adults (56+)
Health Assessment: Conduct thorough evaluations of overall health due to age-related conditions.
Bone Density: Check for bone loss; grafting may be needed.
Surgical Risks: Discuss risks and the ability to tolerate surgery.
What is the dental implant process?

Here´s a simple step-by-step guide to getting a dental implant:
• Consultation: You start with a dentist who will check your teeth and jawbone to make sure you're a good candidate for an implant.
• Preparation: If needed, your dentist may do some preparatory work, like bone grafting, to ensure there´s enough bone to support the implant.
• Implant Placement: In a minor surgery, the dentist places a small titanium post into your jawbone. This post acts as a new tooth root.
• Healing Time: You wait several months for the jawbone to grow around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This makes the implant stable and strong.
• Abutment Placement: After healing, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This part will hold the new tooth in place.
• Crown Placement: Finally, a custom-made crown (the new tooth) is attached to the abutment. This completes the process and gives you a fully functional and natural-looking tooth.
How to care for dental implants?
Post-implant care is also very important!
To care for dental implants, brush and floss daily, use mouthwash, and visit your dentist regularly. Treat implants like natural teeth to keep them clean and healthy.
Here, I want to tell you that no matter which repair method is used, it is not as important as daily oral care. I hope everyone can pay attention to oral hygiene and have a good set of teeth!
Finally, I would like to share with you some success stories
• Single Tooth Replacement: A 45-year-old patient lost a molar due to decay. After implant placement, they experienced a 98% success rate, restoring functionality and aesthetics.
• Full Arch Rehabilitation: A 60-year-old with extensive tooth loss received a full-arch implant supported denture. The implants provided stability, significantly improving chewing ability and overall quality of life.
• Immediate Load Implants: A 35-year-old patient had a failing tooth extracted and received an immediate implant with a temporary crown. The success rate was high, allowing for a functional smile within weeks.
• Implant Supported Bridge: A 50-year-old patient with multiple missing teeth opted for an implant-supported bridge. The procedure involved placing three implants to support a bridge of four teeth. The successful integration allowed the patient to regain full chewing function and improve their smile aesthetics, resulting in increased confidence.
• Zygomatic Implants: A 70-year-old patient with significant bone loss in the upper jaw received zygomatic implants. These longer implants anchor into the cheekbone, bypassing the need for bone grafting. The procedure was successful, enabling the patient to have a stable denture and greatly enhancing their quality of life.
• Dual Implant for Anterior Teeth: A 30-year-old patient with traumatic tooth loss in the front received two implants for the anterior teeth. The implants were placed and restored within a few months, allowing for a natural appearance and full functionality. The success of this case emphasized the importance of aesthetics in dental implant procedures.
These cases illustrate the ultimate potential of dental implants to enhance oral health and patient satisfaction.