If you have a missing tooth, you don’t have to live with the gap permanently. Dental implants and dental bridges are two common options for replacing a missing tooth, but they work in different ways.
So, which is better: a dental implant or a bridge?
There is no single answer for everyone. The right option depends on your oral health, jawbone condition, the health of your neighbouring teeth, your budget, and your long-term goals.
In this guide, we’ll compare dental implants vs dental bridges to help you understand the differences and what you may want to discuss with your dentist.
Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dental Implants | Dental Bridges |
| How it works | Uses an implant placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth | Uses neighbouring teeth to support the replacement tooth |
| Requires surgery | Yes | Usually no implant surgery |
| Treatment time | Usually longer | Usually faster |
| Affects neighbouring teeth | Does not normally require them to support the replacement tooth | Usually involves the neighbouring teeth |
| Jawbone stimulation | Helps replace the function of a tooth root | Does not replace the tooth root |
| Maintenance | Similar to caring for natural teeth, with additional cleaning around the implant | Requires cleaning around and underneath the bridge |
| Longevity | Can be long-lasting with proper care | Can also provide long-term tooth replacement, but may eventually need replacement |
| Best suited for | Patients looking for an independent, long-term tooth replacement option | Patients looking for a fixed replacement without implant surgery |
Important: Treatment suitability varies from person to person. Your dentist will need to assess your teeth, gums, bone, bite, and overall oral health before recommending an option.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a tooth-replacement option that uses a small implant placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth.
The implant acts as an artificial tooth root. Once the area has healed and the implant has integrated with the bone, a dental crown can be attached to restore the missing tooth.
Dental implants are designed to look and function much like natural teeth.
If you’d like to understand the potential advantages in more detail, read our guide to the benefits of dental implants.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by placing an artificial tooth in the gap and supporting it with the neighbouring teeth.
Unlike an implant, a traditional dental bridge does not require an implant to be placed into the jawbone.
A bridge can be a practical option for people who want to replace a missing tooth without undergoing implant surgery.
Dental Implants vs Dental Bridges: Key Differences
1. How They Replace the Missing Tooth
The biggest difference is how each treatment is supported.
Dental implant:
The implant is placed into the jawbone and acts as the foundation for the replacement tooth.
Dental bridge:
The replacement tooth is supported by neighbouring teeth.
This means an implant is generally an independent tooth replacement, while a traditional bridge relies on the teeth beside the gap.
2. Treatment Time
Treatment timelines can differ.
A dental bridge can often be completed more quickly because there is no implant healing period.
Dental implants generally involve multiple stages, including implant placement and a period of healing before the final restoration is attached.
The exact timeline depends on your individual situation and whether additional procedures are required.
You can learn more about what to expect in our guide to the dental implant process.
3. Impact on Your Neighbouring Teeth
This is another important difference.
With a traditional dental bridge, the neighbouring teeth are generally used to support the bridge.
With a dental implant, the replacement tooth is supported by the implant itself rather than relying on adjacent teeth.
For some patients, preserving healthy neighbouring teeth may be an important consideration when choosing between an implant and a bridge.
4. Jawbone Preservation
When a natural tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can gradually lose volume because the tooth root is no longer stimulating the bone.
A dental implant replaces the role of the tooth root and can help maintain the bone in the area.
A traditional bridge replaces the visible part of the tooth but does not replace the natural tooth root.
This is one reason your dentist may consider the condition of your jawbone when discussing tooth-replacement options.
5. Appearance
Both dental implants and bridges can be designed to look natural.
A well-made restoration should blend with your surrounding teeth in terms of shape, size, and colour.
The final appearance can depend on several factors, including the location of the missing tooth, the health of your gums, and the type of restoration used.
6. Comfort and Function
Both options are designed to restore your ability to chew and speak comfortably.
A dental implant is fixed into the jawbone, which can provide a stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
A dental bridge is also fixed in place rather than being removable like some types of dentures.
Your dentist can help you understand how each option may affect your bite and chewing function.
Dental Implant vs Bridge: Which Lasts Longer?
Both dental implants and bridges can provide long-term tooth replacement when properly planned and maintained.
However, they are maintained differently and have different factors that can affect their longevity.
The lifespan of either option can depend on:
- Your oral hygiene
- Gum health
- Bite and chewing forces
- Lifestyle habits
- The condition of surrounding teeth
- Regular dental checkups
- The type and quality of restoration
Rather than choosing an option based only on expected lifespan, it’s important to consider which treatment is appropriate for your mouth and long-term oral health.
Are Dental Implants Better Than Bridges?
Dental implants can offer several advantages, including replacing the missing tooth without using neighbouring teeth for support and helping maintain the jawbone.
However, that doesn’t automatically mean an implant is the best choice for every patient.
A dental bridge may be a better option in some situations, particularly when a patient wants a fixed tooth replacement without implant surgery or when the surrounding teeth are suitable for supporting a bridge.
The best choice depends on your individual dental needs.
When Might a Dental Implant Be a Good Option?
A dental implant may be worth considering if:
- You have one or more missing teeth
- You have healthy gums or can achieve good gum health
- You have sufficient jawbone or are a candidate for procedures to improve bone support
- You want a fixed tooth-replacement option
- You want to avoid relying on neighbouring teeth for support
- You’re looking for a long-term tooth-replacement solution
Your dentist will assess whether an implant is appropriate for you.
For a deeper look at why implants are commonly used for missing teeth, read Why Dental Implants Are a Solution for Missing Teeth.
When Might a Dental Bridge Be a Good Option?
A dental bridge may be considered if:
- You want a fixed replacement for a missing tooth
- You prefer to avoid implant surgery
- The neighbouring teeth are suitable to support a bridge
- You want a treatment that may be completed in a shorter timeframe
- An implant isn’t suitable for your current situation
Your dentist can evaluate the teeth around the gap and determine whether they can adequately support a bridge.
Can You Get a Dental Implant After Having a Bridge?
In some cases, a dental implant may still be an option after having a bridge.
However, your dentist will need to assess the condition of the area, including the gums, jawbone, and neighbouring teeth.
If you’re considering changing from a bridge to an implant, a dental examination and appropriate imaging can help determine whether implant treatment is suitable.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing Between an Implant and Bridge?
Instead of asking only “Which is better?”, consider these questions with your dentist:
1. Are my neighbouring teeth healthy?
If the teeth next to the missing tooth are healthy, you may want to discuss whether an implant could replace the missing tooth without using those teeth for support.
2. Is my jawbone healthy enough for an implant?
Your dentist can evaluate your jawbone and determine whether it can support an implant.
3. How quickly do I want to replace the tooth?
A bridge may have a shorter treatment timeline, while implants generally require a healing period.
4. What is best for my long-term oral health?
The cheapest or fastest option isn’t necessarily the best option for every patient.
Your dentist can help you compare the short-term and long-term considerations.
5. How should I maintain the replacement?
Both options require good oral hygiene and regular dental care.
How Do You Care for Dental Implants and Bridges?
Good oral hygiene is important regardless of which option you choose.
Continue to:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Clean between your teeth daily
- Follow your dentist’s cleaning recommendations
- Attend regular dental examinations
- Maintain good gum health
If you’re looking for practical ways to maintain your oral health, see our guide on how to improve your gum health.
What If You Are Nervous About Dental Treatment?
If dental anxiety is making you delay treatment for a missing tooth, you’re not alone.
Let your dental team know about your concerns before treatment. Discussing your questions and expectations can make the experience more comfortable.
Our guide on tips for overcoming dental anxiety has some practical suggestions that may help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Implants vs Bridges
Is a dental implant better than a bridge?
Not necessarily for everyone. Dental implants and bridges have different advantages and limitations. An implant may be suitable for someone looking for an independent, long-term replacement, while a bridge may be appropriate for someone who wants a fixed replacement without implant surgery.
Is a dental bridge cheaper than an implant?
The cost can vary depending on the number of teeth being replaced, the materials used, your dental health, and whether additional treatment is needed. A dental consultation is the best way to get an accurate estimate for your situation.
Which is more natural, an implant or a bridge?
Both can be designed to look natural. Dental implants can closely replicate the structure of a natural tooth because the implant replaces the tooth root and supports a crown.
Does getting a dental implant hurt?
Dental implant placement is performed with local anaesthesia, so you should not feel the procedure itself. Some soreness or discomfort can occur during the healing period. Your dentist will explain what to expect before treatment.
How long does a dental bridge last?
A dental bridge can provide long-term tooth replacement when properly cared for. Its lifespan depends on factors such as oral hygiene, gum health, bite forces, and the condition of the supporting teeth.
Can a dental bridge be replaced with an implant?
In some cases, yes. However, suitability depends on the condition of the bone, gums, and surrounding teeth. Your dentist will need to assess the area before recommending implant treatment.
What is the best replacement for one missing tooth?
A dental implant and a dental bridge are both possible options. The best choice depends on your oral health, jawbone, neighbouring teeth, treatment preferences, and long-term goals.
Dental Implant or Bridge: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re missing a tooth, both dental implants and dental bridges can restore your smile and chewing function. The main difference is how they are supported.
A dental implant replaces the tooth root and supports a replacement tooth independently, while a traditional dental bridge uses neighbouring teeth for support.
There isn’t one solution that is right for every patient.
If you’re in Aurora, Ontario, a dental examination can help determine whether a dental implant, bridge, or another tooth-replacement option is most appropriate for you.
Don’t leave a missing tooth unaddressed simply because it doesn’t hurt. Discuss your options with a dentist and choose a solution based on your oral health and long-term needs.
Key Takeaway
Dental implants and dental bridges are both effective options for replacing missing teeth, but they work differently. Implants can replace the tooth root and do not normally rely on neighbouring teeth, while bridges use adjacent teeth for support. The right option depends on your individual oral health, bone condition, neighbouring teeth, treatment timeline, and goals.