Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants

There are many reasons patients lose adult teeth, including tooth decay, gum disease, periodontal disease, or trauma. Finding a solution to ensure your healthy teeth surrounding the missing space stays intact is crucial. If you’re looking to replace your missing tooth, you may wonder whether dental bridges or dental implants are the best options. Dental bridges and dental implants each have unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to weigh your options before deciding.

Dental Bridge

A bridge could restore your smile if you have healthy remaining teeth surrounding a gap where a tooth is missing. A dental bridge consists of two crowns placed on the teeth adjacent to the space, with a false tooth (pontic) in between. Bridges are usually made of porcelain or ceramic, and the adjacent teeth support them.

Benefits of bridges to replace missing teeth include:

  • They are generally  less expensive than implants.
  • They are easier to install than implants.
  • Finally, they do not require surgery.

Drawbacks of bridges include:

  • They are not as strong as implants.
  • They require the natural tooth to be filed down.
  • If one of the teeth supporting the bridge fails, then the entire bridge will fail

Dental Implant

Dental implants are dental prosthetics that offer a more permanent tooth replacement option and replace the entire tooth. A dental implant consists of a metal post placed in the jawbone, with a dental crown on top.

Dental implants are considered the most robust and durable option for replacing missing teeth. Implants can also be used in combination with a dental bridge to replace several natural teeth in a row without several implants. Implant-supported bridges are also more robust and more stable than traditional dental bridges.

Benefits of dental implants include:

  • They are more robust than dental bridges.
  • They are more stable than dental bridges.
  • They do not require the surrounding teeth to be filed down.

Drawbacks of dental implants include:

  • They are more expensive than dental bridges.
  • They require surgery.
  • They have a longer installation time than dental bridges.

What is the difference in cost between bridges and implants?

The cost of dental bridges and dental implants varies depending on the individual case. In general, implants are more expensive than dental bridges, and this is because dental implants require surgery, while bridges do not.

The cost of dental implants also depends on the number of implants needed. For example, a single dental implant may cost less than a bridge, but the overall cost may be higher if you need multiple implants to support a dental bridge.

Dental insurance may cover a portion of dental implants or bridges, but it is unlikely to cover the entire cost.

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What is the difference in installation time between bridges and implants?

The installation time for dental bridges is generally shorter than the installation time for dental implants, and this is because dental implants require surgery, while dental bridges do not. Dental implants also have a longer healing time than dental bridges, and this is because the metal post of the dental implant needs to fuse with the jawbone, which can take several months.

Implants vs. Bridges: Which option is best for you?

The best option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Ultimately, you and our surgeons will determine the best option for you. Your oral health and dental history will also be factors in deciding which option is best for you. If you are considering dental implants or bridges, please schedule a consultation with our office. Dr. Akbar Dawood will be happy to help you decide which option is best for you.

Book Appointment

The first step towards getting the beautiful, healthy smile you’ve always wanted is to schedule an appointment with our office. You can contact us by phone or submit the appointment request form online and our office staff will contact you to confirm your appointment.