4 Fascinating Myths and Facts About Bridges, Implants, and Crowns

Myths and Facts About Bridges

Get the care you need when you need it.

The best time to address tooth pain or tooth decay is today. Not only will you prevent bigger problems down the road (not to mention the related expenses), but you’ll be free from pain and anxiety. 

Sometimes, harmful or humorous myths and facts about bridges implants, and crowns get in the way of getting the care we need. Here are a few myths we hear from time to time surrounding a few popular corrective treatments.

Myth #1: A bridge can only be taken out by a dentist.

Fact: There are three types of bridges: fixed, implant, and removable. A removable bridge can be taken out and cleaned by you, the patient. A fixed bridge can only be removed by a dentist.

The most secure bridge is an implant bridge, also called a hybrid bridge or hybrid implant. An implant bridge attaches artificial teeth “directly to the jaw or under the gum tissue.”

Every dentist or dental professional will tell you how important it is to keep your remaining teeth healthy and strong after you receive a bridge. Your dentist will also do their part to help you achieve that goal during your regular hygiene appointments and with preventive care and expert advice. 

Dr. Monroe has decades of experience with all three kinds of bridges and will recommend the kind that best fits your unique case.

Myth #2: An implant compromises your immune system and does more harm than good.

Fact: Missing teeth cause some sort of problem 100% of the time. The first thing that happens is that it affects how you chew, creating an unhealthy and uncomfortable bite. In time, this can result in jaw misalignment, which often results in headaches from TMJ and can affect the alignment of the rest of your neck and spine. 

Then, other teeth start to shift around. Bone loss around the missing tooth may occur in some cases. There is also some evidence that the loss of mineral density that occurs in the alveolar bone when teeth are missing also makes the body more susceptible to periodontal bacteria, which increases the risk of developing periodontitis and experiencing even more tooth loss. 

What was that? Tooth loss can lead to more tooth loss?

Yes. Exactly.

This is why you want to take care of missing teeth right away. 

This is not to say that there is not some risk for implant failure or infection. There is. This is why you want to stay best friends with your dentist to make sure that you and your new tooth receive the best care possible. Your dentist will be able to give you counsel on whether you are a good candidate for an implant, as there are some chronic illnesses and life habits that slow or interfere with healing. If you are a good candidate, your dentist and the implant surgeon will talk you through every part of the process including aftercare. They will let you know which signs to look for, when to immediately contact Monroe Family Dentistry, and will schedule aftercare appointments to ensure everything is functioning well.

The idea that you should hesitate to get implants for missing teeth is questionable reasoning. Though the problems that accompany implants in a small percentage of cases can be avoided, the problems that accompany missing teeth cannot be avoided if left untreated. Mouthhealthy.org states, “The development and use of implants is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years.” They are a wonderful alternative to dentures and the best solution for most people.

Myth #3: I can put off getting a crown.

Fact: This is another one of those cases where the longer you wait, the more care you will need (and the more it will cost). Your dentist will be able to tell you how long you can wait to schedule a crown installation, but once it’s determined that you need one from radiograph and analysis, it’s usually only a matter of weeks, not months or years. A crown can prevent the need for an implant down the road. Remember, the goal is to restore any problematic teeth and preserve them going forward. Monroe Family Dentistry specializes in preserving as much of your natural teeth as possible, and a regular relationship with your dentist will help you achieve your healthy smile goals. 

The investment in your health will pay off for many years through a healthy smile, prevention of further problems, increased self-confidence, and life-changing opportunities.

Dental crowns are one of the most amazing and versatile treatments available in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. “They can restore the shape, function, and strength of misshapen, damaged, or weakened teeth.” At Monroe Family Dentistry, crowns are available in porcelain, metal alloys, or a fusion of both. Your dentist will help you select the best option for you. 

We can fit a custom dental crown to your tooth that will serve you well for many years to come.

Myth #4: I only have one option to restore a missing tooth or missing teeth.

One of the exciting things about today’s dental world is that experienced dentists can often offer you multiple options for restoring your smile based on your individual needs, finances, and other factors. Our goal is to restore total oral health and confidence. We will make sure you understand all the options and the effect your choices will have on your long-term health and care. Your dentist will also guide you through your choices and recommend the optimal treatment plan for you.