Dental Implants vs. Bridges: Best Options for Missing Teeth

Sometimes the process of tooth loss is not as smooth when trying to find which option would be better for replacing lost teeth between dental implants and bridges. It all sounds great since each procedure has seeming merits, and such differences need to be compared and contrasted so that you can weigh your decision based on your circumstances.

Dental implants are artificial roots that an oral surgeon places surgically into your jawbone under the gum line. After healing, an abutment and crown are attached to replicate the appearance and function of a natural tooth.

Implants are secure, not attached to adjacent teeth, and permit eating and speaking like natural teeth. Long-term, they preserve better jawbone height and width than bridges.

Bridges are one kind of dental prosthetic appliance in which the area overlying lost teeth is covered, supported on one side by the cementation of a retainer to adjacent natural teeth or implants and on the other by the cementation of a retainer to adjacent natural teeth or implants. A false tooth is bound in between these supports to appear like a fixed extension of the adjacent teeth. Thus, it is possible to effect better function without removable appliances like dentures.

Both restore a natural appearance and function for chewing. Unlike bridges, however, implants do not require cutting down adjacent natural teeth. This helps preserve more of your existing healthy tooth structure and avoids the reduction of sound tooth material. Implants have better retention than bridges, which can become loose or fail over time because of deterioration of the cement.

From a care standpoint, implants generally have a less involved routine compared to bridges which require more complex cleaning under/around because they sit partially on existing teeth. Implants are found to last 15-20 years on average compared to 10-15 years for bridges before sometimes needing to be replaced.

Compared over one’s lifetime, implants may end up being more economical long-term compared to having to replace multiple bridges.

However, bridges, as an initial treatment, are less expensive and do not have the healing time required by implants before a crown can be placed. They make for a good bridge to a future implant for those who are not yet ready to make the total commitment.

They are also better suited for some anatomical limitations that preclude implant placement due to insufficient natural bone volume or more localized location of the missing teeth.

We offer all phases of implant restoration in-house using modern 3D imaging and computer-guided protocols for precise placement. Schedule an evaluation – we can determine whether implants or bridges are the best solution for you based on specifics related to your dental health, function, budget, and cosmetic desires. Your comfort and stability remain our priority.

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