If you’ve lost a tooth, deciding how to replace it is an important step in protecting your oral health and confidence. Dental bridges and dental implants are two of the most common solutions, each with its advantages. So, how do you choose the one that’s right for you?
This guide compares dental bridges and implants side-by-side, examining durability, appearance, procedure, maintenance, and cost to help you make an informed decision.
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
A missing tooth isn’t just a cosmetic issue. Leaving a gap in your mouth can lead to:
- Shifting of nearby teeth
- Difficulty chewing
- Jawbone deterioration over time
- Changes to your bite and facial structure
- Speech issues
- Greater risk of decay and gum disease
Whether your tooth loss is due to injury, decay, or gum disease, replacing the tooth promptly can help you avoid future dental problems.
For a more general overview of your options, you may want to read Fixing Missing Teeth.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge uses one or more artificial teeth (called pontics) to fill a gap. These pontics are held in place by crowns attached to the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal fused with porcelain.
Types of Dental Bridges:
- Traditional bridges – Crowns on both sides of the gap
- Cantilever bridges – Crown on only one side
- Maryland bridges – Metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of adjacent teeth
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically inserted into the jawbone, which acts like the root of a natural tooth. After it heals and bonds with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to complete the restoration.
Dental implants Gold Coast patients trust can replace a single missing tooth or be used to support bridges or full dentures for multiple missing teeth, offering a long-term, natural-looking solution.
For more detailed information on this process, see Understanding Dental Implants: A Comprehensive Guide.
Dental Bridges vs Implants: Key Differences
1. Longevity and Durability
- Implants: Can last 15–25 years or more, often a lifetime with good care.
- Bridges: Typically last 10–15 years before needing replacement.
Verdict: Implants are more durable over time.
2. Procedure
- Implants: Require minor surgery to place the titanium post. Healing can take 3–6 months before the crown is fitted.
- Bridges: Usually completed in 2–3 appointments over a few weeks. No surgery is needed.
Verdict: Bridges involve a quicker and less invasive procedure.
3. Bone and Gum Health
- Implants: Help preserve jawbone by stimulating bone tissue, preventing bone loss.
- Bridges: Do not prevent bone loss, as there’s no root replacement.
Verdict: Implants support long-term bone health.
4. Impact on Adjacent Teeth
- Implants: Do not affect surrounding teeth.
- Bridges: Require adjacent healthy teeth to be filed down for crown placement.
Verdict: Implants are better for preserving natural tooth structure.
5. Appearance and Feel
Both options can be made to look natural and feel comfortable. Implants often feel more like your own teeth because they are anchored into the jawbone.
Verdict: Slight edge to implants for a more natural feel.
6. Cleaning and Maintenance
- Implants: Cleaned like natural teeth—brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits.
- Bridges: Require special flossing techniques under the bridge to remove trapped food and plaque.
Verdict: Implants are easier to maintain for most people.
Which Option Is Right for You?
Every patient is different. The right choice for replacing your missing tooth depends on several factors:
- Bone health – You may need a bone graft before getting implants if the bone has deteriorated.
- Overall health – Some medical conditions may make implant surgery less suitable.
- Number and location of missing teeth – Implants are excellent for single or multiple tooth replacement.
- Budget – While implants offer a longer-term solution, bridges may be more accessible financially upfront.
Your dentist will assess your individual needs and help you choose the best option based on your oral health, preferences, and goals.
Expert Tooth Replacement at Bundall Dental and Implants
At Bundall Dental and Implants, we offer both dental bridges and implants as part of our comprehensive tooth replacement services. Our team will take the time to assess your oral health, explain your options clearly, and recommend the solution that suits you best.
If you’re considering replacing a missing tooth and want long-term results you can trust, book a consultation with us today. We’re here to restore your smile and your confidence.
