Implant or bridge: which is better for 45-year-olds?

Implantation usually refers to dental implant. Whether it is better for a 45-year-old to choose dental implants or dental bridges depends on the individual patient's specific condition, as each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. Details are as follows:

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants involve placing an artificial tooth root (the implant) into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth, followed by attaching an artificial crown on top to restore the missing tooth. Dental implants offer several benefits, including excellent stability, no reliance on adjacent teeth, no need to grind down neighboring teeth, and preservation of jawbone integrity. However, the procedure is relatively complex, requiring preoperative evaluation, longer surgical time, and an extended treatment period with a significant healing phase for osseointegration. Additionally, the cost is higher. For patients with insufficient bone volume or compromised immune systems, dental implants may carry certain risks.

2. Dental Bridges (Dental Prostheses)

Dental bridges involve securely fitting artificial crowns onto existing teeth to replace missing ones, restoring tooth appearance, chewing function, and aesthetics. Compared to dental implants, bridges are simpler to perform, require shorter recovery time, and are more cost-effective. However, bridges require grinding down enamel of adjacent healthy teeth, which may damage them. Furthermore, bridges are less stable and generally have a shorter lifespan.

In summary, whether a 45-year-old should choose dental implants or bridges must be determined based on individual circumstances. Before undergoing treatment, it is recommended to consult a dentist, fully understand the pros and cons of each option, and select the most suitable treatment method.