Difference between dental implants and dental prosthetics

Dental implants and dental prostheses (dental bridges or dentures) each have distinct characteristics in the field of dental restoration, with main differences体现在 the following aspects: 1. Treatment Principle: Dental implants involve surgically placing an artificial implant into the lower or upper jawbone to restore the root structure of a missing tooth. In contrast, dental prostheses replace missing teeth using fixed or removable artificial teeth, typically supported by adjacent natural teeth. 2. Procedure: Dental implants require a surgical procedure, whereas dental prostheses do not. Instead, they involve minimal removal of enamel from neighboring teeth, followed by bonding the artificial tooth to the existing teeth using dental adhesive. 3. Bone Structure Requirements: Dental implants require sufficient bone volume and density to ensure stable integration and long-term success. Dental prostheses, however, do not have specific requirements regarding alveolar bone morphology. 4. Longevity and Cost: Dental implants generally last much longer—often a lifetime—but come with a higher initial cost. Dental prostheses have a relatively shorter lifespan, typically lasting between 5 to 15 years, and are less expensive.