Dental bridges vs. implants: which is best for you?

Dental bridges and dental implants are two effective tooth replacement solutions. If you’re missing one or multiple teeth, you may be wondering which option is best. The answer depends on your unique situation and factors like your budget, oral health, and how many missing teeth you have.  
 
Below, we’ll compare dental bridges and dental implants so you can make an informed decision for your unique needs and goals. For a professional recommendation and more information about these two options, schedule a free consultation at your nearest ClearChoice Dental Implant Center today.

How dental bridges work

Dental bridges are designed to “bridge” the gap created by one or multiple missing teeth. They typically consist of at least two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap and a false tooth known as a pontic in between. With a dental bridge, you can help lessen the risk of your remaining teeth from shifting and hindering your bite.

Dental bridges pros and cons 

Here are several of the most noteworthy benefits and drawbacks of dental bridges:

• Pro: Involve a quick, predictable, non-surgical procedure
  
  

• Pro: Less expensive than other tooth restoration solutions, such as dental implants
  
  

• Pro: A viable alternative if the missing tooth site does not have sufficient bone for an implant
  
  

• Con: May weaken adjacent teeth
  
  

• Con: Typically last between 5 to 15 years and may require replacements or repairs
  
  

How dental implants work

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace one or several missing teeth. Dental implant restorations look and feel like natural teeth, offering both optimal function and aesthetic appeal. There are many types of dental implant treatments, including fixed full arch dental implants, implant dentures, implant supported bridge implants, and single tooth implants.

Dental implants pros and cons

Here’s a brief look at the advantages and disadvantages of dental implant treatment:

• Pro: Provide a natural look and feel
  
  

• Pro: Make it easy to chew, eat, and smile with confidence
  
  

• Pro: Implants can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance
  
  

• Pro: Preserve jawbone health and help lessen the risk of deterioration
  
  

• Con: Higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement solutions like dental bridges, but can be well worth the investment
  
  

• Con: Require surgery and a longer healing process
  
  

Factors to consider when choosing between dental implants and bridges 

To figure out whether you’d be better off with dental bridges or dental implants, it’s important to consider these factors:

Cost 

Dental implant treatment may come with a higher upfront cost than bridges. However, while bridges can be less costly upfront, keep in mind that you may need to replace them in the future. For some people, the higher cost of dental implants is well worth it, as the implant can last a lifetime.

How many missing teeth you have 

While a dental bridge can help replace a single tooth, it’s usually placed to restore multiple missing teeth but only an option if the adjacent teeth are in decent shape. Dental implants can be used for one missing tooth or several teeth in a row through implant supported bridges.

Learn more about dental implants

Dental implants and dental bridges are two tooth replacement solutions that can help improve your overall oral health and quality of life. At ClearChoice Dental Implant Center, doctors can provide treatment to help restore not only your smile but also your confidence and quality of life. Fortunately, we work with third-party vendors to make dental implant treatment more accessible. Visit your local ClearChoice Dental Implant Center to learn more.

Dental bridges vs. implants FAQs 

Can I eat with a dental bridge? 

While you may be able to eat normally with a dental bridge, the adjustment period might take a while. You may have to start with softer foods and eventually introduce harder foods as your mouth becomes acclimated with your bridge.

What does a dental bridge look like in your mouth? 

A dental bridge looks like a series of teeth. It’s usually made from plastic or porcelain material and attaches to surrounding teeth.

Can I switch from a dental bridge to a dental implant? 

Yes, you may be able to transition from a dental bridge to a dental implant. However, you’ll need sufficient bone mass to do so.

When is it too late to get dental implants? 

Fortunately, there is no upper age limit for the dental implant procedure.

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