Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Which Is Best?

Losing a tooth affects more than just your smile. In the long term, it can impact your confidence, your ability to chew, and even the alignment of your other teeth. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers you several effective solutions to missing teeth. Dental implants and dental bridges are two of the most common, but how do you decide between them? Here’s your guide to dental implants vs. bridges and how to approach the decision.

What Are Dental Implants and Bridges?

Before we can compare dental implants and bridges, it’s important to understand what each treatment involves. While both are fixed, long-term options for replacing teeth, the treatment processes are entirely different.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are three-part tooth replacements that mimic the appearance and structure of a natural tooth. Because the implant fuses with your jawbone over time, it provides a stable and durable solution to a gap in the teeth. Each implant is made up of these components:

• The Post—This small, screw-like part is made of titanium and acts as the new tooth root. It’s surgically placed into the jawbone where the original root was.
• The Abutment—After the post has healed into the jawbone, this connector piece is attached to the top of the post.
• The Crown—Finally, a custom-made crown (the visible part of the tooth) is secured to the abutment. The result is an artificial tooth that looks just like a real one!

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge, as its name suggests, closes the gap left by a missing tooth using the neighboring teeth for support. The most common type is a traditional fixed bridge, which consists of these parts:

• The Pontic—This is the artificial tooth that fills the gap left by a missing tooth.
• Abutment Teeth—These are the natural teeth on either side of the gap. To support the bridge, these teeth are prepared by removing some of their enamel and are then fitted with crowns.
• The Bridge Unit—The pontic is then fused between the two crowns, creating a single unit that’s cemented in place.

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

Dental implants are often considered the gold standard for tooth replacement. Here are some advantages of replacing teeth with dental implants:

• Longevity—Dental implants are permanent solutions, and with the proper care, they can last a lifetime.
• Jawbone Preservation—Implants stimulate the jawbone just like a natural tooth root. This prevents bone loss over time and maintains your natural face structure.
• Natural Look and Feel—Many people opt for dental implants because they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
• No Impact on Adjacent Teeth—Unlike a bridge, an implant does not require altering healthy neighboring teeth.
• Easier Maintenance—Cleaning an implant is as simple as brushing and flossing your natural teeth—no extra effort here!

Disadvantages of Dental Implants

However, like any other dental procedure, implants aren’t for everyone. Keep these potential disadvantages in mind as you look for tooth replacement options:

• Higher Upfront Cost—In most cases, the initial cost of a dental implant is higher than that of a bridge.
• Surgery—Getting dental implants means undergoing surgery, which carries the same risks as any minor procedure. You’ll also need to prepare for recovery time.
• Long Treatment Time—The entire process, from implant placement to final crown attachment, can take several months to allow for proper healing.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

Are dental implants better than bridges? Some would say so, but others benefit just as much from a dental bridge. Check out these benefits of dental bridges:

• Less Expensive—Dental bridges are typically more affordable than an implant, especially if you’re only looking at initial cost.
• Faster Process—The entire procedure for a bridge can often be completed in just two or three appointments over a few weeks.
• Non-Surgical—Placing a bridge is a less invasive, non-surgical procedure. This is often preferable for people who are not suitable candidates for surgery.
• Tailor-Made—Bridges are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth. Most people won’t be able to tell the difference between a bridge and your existing teeth!

Disadvantages of Dental Bridges

Just like dental implants, bridges have their fair share of drawbacks. As you weigh your options, be sure to account for these disadvantages:

• Impact on Healthy Teeth—The biggest drawback is the need to permanently alter healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Removing enamel can make these teeth more susceptible to decay or sensitivity in the future.
• Shorter Lifespan—Dental bridges typically need to be replaced every five to 15 years, even with proper care.
• Bone Loss—Because there is no root stimulating the jawbone under the pontic, the bone in that area will deteriorate over time.
• More Difficult to Clean—Cleaning under the pontic requires special tools like floss threaders to prevent plaque buildup.

What Else to Consider When Making Your Decision

Now that you know the pros and cons of dental implants and bridges, you can make a better decision for your oral health. However, you’ll have several other factors to consider. You and your dentist will discuss the following regarding dental bridges vs. implants:

• The number of missing teeth
• The health of your remaining teeth and gums
• Your long-term goals—do you prefer a permanent solution or a quick one?
• Your budget and insurance coverage

Restore Your Smile With Brookwood Dental Center

Ultimately, both dental implants and bridges are excellent solutions to missing teeth. The right one for you depends on your specific circumstances. The team at Brookwood Dental Center is here to help you find the right approach to replacing a missing tooth. Contact our Fenton, MO team today to set up an appointment.

FAQs About Dental Implants and Bridges

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

The surgery is performed under local anesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. Afterward, discomfort is typically mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Can I get a dental bridge if the adjacent teeth have fillings?

Yes, teeth with fillings can often support a bridge, as long as they are otherwise strong and healthy.

Which option looks more natural?

Both solutions provide excellent, natural-looking results! Most people agree that implants look slightly more natural, but bridges are often just as effective.