Dental Implants vs. Bridges

Dental implants and bridges are both options to replace a missing tooth.

A dental implant serves as an artificial root for a missing tooth. An abutment and crown are placed on top of the implant in order to have the most natural replacement possible for a tooth.

A bridge is where teeth on either side of a missing tooth are used for support and a false tooth is attached between those teeth.

In both cases, the restoration is fixed in the mouth and is not removed.

Bridge Advantages:
1. Usually can be completed in a matter of weeks
2. A good solution in situations where an implant cannot be done

Bridge Disadvantages:
1. Potentially removing healthy tooth structure
2. More force is placed on the teeth attached to the bridge
3. Increased risk of bone loss over time
4. More difficult maintenance

Implant Advantages:
1. Preserves bone structure and reduces risk of bone loss
2. Maintenance of teeth is easier
3. Removal of healthy tooth structure is not required

Implant Disadvantages:
1. Time required to complete restorations can sometimes be longer than a bridge
2. In situations with poor bone quality, may require additional procedures