How to Choose Between Dental Implants and Bridges for Tooth Replacement

The everyday impact of having a missing tooth can be significant. It can affect your chewing, speaking, confidence, and even lead to shifting of neighboring teeth over time. The good news is that there are dental treatments to replace missing teeth, and you have options. 

Dental implants and bridges are two of the most common and reliable ways to replace missing teeth. The right choice for you depends on your oral health, bone structure, budget, and long-term goals. 

In this article we will compare both treatments to help you understand your options and feel prepared for a conversation with your dentist about tooth replacement. 

Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters

Nothing says you have to replace a missing tooth, but there are definite benefits to your oral health when you do. A variety of problems can result from leaving an empty space in your mouth. 

For one, your jawbone begins to weaken and resorb without stimulation from the natural tooth root. Not only can this affect your jaw health and appearance, but it also makes it more difficult to replace the tooth with a dental implant later. 

Another problem is the likelihood of drifting and tilting of adjacent teeth, which can affect your bite alignment. A misaligned bite leads to increased strain on your remaining teeth and difficulty chewing certain foods. 

Finally, depending on the location of the missing tooth, it can result in speech changes and the cosmetic and confidence concerns of a visible gap. 

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant replaces a natural tooth root. It is surgically placed in the jaw and fuses with the existing bone. It consists of three parts:

• Implant. The implant is a titanium or zirconium post with threads like a screw to help it bond securely with the jawbone. 

• Abutment. The abutment is a post that is used to connect the crown to the implant. 

• Crown. A crown is an artificial tooth used to replace the visible portion of the missing tooth. 

The process begins with a consultation and evaluation that includes digital imaging to determine candidacy and create a treatment plan. Then the implant is placed in the jaw and allowed to heal and complete the process of osseointegration, or fusion with the bone. The final step is the placement of your permanent crown, which restores function and appearance. 

Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or to support full-arch restorations using anywhere from 2-6 implants. Dental implants can take a few months to a year or more to complete the final restoration. 

What Is a Dental Bridge?

A traditional dental bridge replaces a missing tooth using the neighboring teeth for support. It consists of a false tooth (pontic) anchored by crowns that fit over the teeth on either side of the gap. 

 

Other types of bridges include: 

• Cantilever: attaches to just one tooth and is limited as to where it can be used

• Maryland: clasps onto the neighboring teeth using a framework that is bonded to the teeth. 

• Implant-supported: two dental implants serve as the support for a row of missing teeth. 

The process begins with a consultation and evaluation to determine if a bridge is the right tooth replacement option for your needs. Then the abutment teeth are prepared and digital impressions are made to create a custom-fit. You’ll receive a temporary bridge to wear until the permanent bridge is ready for placement. Bridges can usually be completed in a few weeks over two or more visits. 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

• Longevity and durability: Implants can last decades or a lifetime with good care, while bridges typically last 10 to 15 years before needing replacement. 
• Impact on neighboring teeth: Bridges require reshaping healthy adjacent teeth, while implants stand on their own and leave surrounding teeth untouched.
• Jawbone health: Implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss, while bridges do not address bone loss beneath the missing tooth.
• Treatment timeline: Bridges are faster to complete, while implants require several months for healing and integration. 
• Upfront cost vs. long-term value: Bridges often cost less initially, while implants may offer better value over time due to fewer replacements. Insurance coverage varies, but tends to be more inclusive of bridges.
• Daily care and maintenance: Implants are brushed and flossed like natural teeth, while bridges require special tools like floss threaders or water flossers to clean under the pontic. 

When a Dental Implant May Be the Better Fit

You may find that a dental implant is the better replacement option for you in these cases: 

• You have healthy, intact teeth on either side of the gap
• You have adequate jawbone density, or are open to bone grafting if needed
• You’re looking for the most long-lasting, natural-feeling solution
• You are a non-smoker and in good overall health so you can expect to heal well after surgery

When a Dental Bridge May Be the Better Fit

You may want to consider a dental bridge if you fit the following criteria: 

• Your neighboring teeth already need crowns or have large fillings
• You would prefer to avoid surgery or have a medical condition that make implant surgery less advisable
• You want a shorter treatment timeline
• You have significant bone loss and would prefer not to undergo grafting 

Finding the Right Fit for Your Smile and Lifestyle 

Both options are proven, effective ways to restore function and appearance. A personalized evaluation, including imaging and a review of oral and overall health, is the best way to decide which treatment plan would most effectively meet your needs. Schedule a consultation with Kalmar Family Dentistry sooner rather than later, because waiting increases the risk of typical problems related to missing teeth. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants vs. Bridges 

Is getting a dental implant more painful than getting a bridge?

Both procedures require the use of local anesthesia to keep you comfortable. That being said, dental implants require minor oral surgery, whereas bridges are minimally invasive. 

Can I get a dental implant if I’ve already had a bridge?

Yes, in many cases you can get a dental implant after having a bridge. The biggest concern is bone loss under the bridge, which can be remedied with bone grafting in most cases. 

How long does the entire dental implant process take?

You can expect it to take anywhere from 3-9 months on average. But depending on the complexity of your case it could take a year or more. 

Will my dental insurance cover implants or bridges?

Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of bridges, but fewer tend to cover dental implants. Contact your insurance provider for details about your coverage. 

Can a bridge be supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth?

Yes, an implant-supported bridge may be recommended for multiple missing teeth in a row. 

Kalmar Family Dentistry is a family-owned dental practice in Huntington, NY, that has provided comprehensive general, cosmetic, restorative, and implant dentistry to patients of all ages for decades using modern digital technology. If you’re weighing your tooth replacement options, contact us today to schedule a consultation and find the solution that’s right for your smile.