Dental Implants or Bridges — Which Is Better?

Implants and bridges are two popular options for replacing missing teeth. There are several key differences between these two treatment methods.

What is a dental bridge

A dental bridge is called so because it fills a gap, replaces a missing tooth or several teeth, and is attached to natural teeth on both sides. The artificial tooth is held in place by adjacent teeth, which are usually fitted with crowns. Dental bridges are used when the surrounding teeth are healthy enough to support the bridge. This is a fast and affordable treatment. However, this method may affect neighboring teeth and does not replace the tooth root.

Types of dental bridges:

• Traditional dental bridge – supported by teeth on both sides of the gap (requires crowns);
•  Cantilever bridge – supported by one or two adjacent teeth on one side;
•  Maryland dental bridge – attached using a clip or a metal/porcelain framework to the back of adjacent teeth;
•  Implant-supported bridge – supported by implants instead of natural teeth.

What is an implant

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root, a titanium screw that is fixed into the jawbone and on which a tooth replacement, such as a crown, is placed. A dental bridge can also be supported by implants to replace several missing teeth in a row.

Types of dental implants:

•  Single dental implant – to replace one missing tooth;
•  Multiple implants – to replace two or more missing teeth;
•  Implant-supported dentures or bridges – suitable for full arch replacement;
•  Mini implants – used in cases of limited bone tissue or as a temporary alternative;
• “All-on-4” technology – full restoration of the dental arch using only four implants.

What are the specific features of these two types of prosthetics?

Visibility. Dental bridges are not placed under the gums, so there is a possibility that part of the bridge may be slightly visible, although the dentist usually ensures that the bridge looks as natural as possible. It may also take some time to get used to the feeling of the bridge in the mouth.

Impact on natural teeth. Implants may be a better option if you want to avoid damage to your own teeth. When placing a bridge, the dentist may need to grind down natural teeth on both sides. Dental implants can withstand the same pressure as natural teeth because they are integrated into the jaw. Dental bridges distribute pressure onto adjacent teeth.

Jaw health. When you lose a tooth and its root, other teeth on both sides of the gap may move into the remaining space, which can lead to bone loss. A dental bridge fixes adjacent teeth and prevents them from shifting, but unlike an implant, there is no screw in the jaw that fills the socket of the missing tooth, so the bridge does not prevent bone loss over time. An implant functions like a real tooth with a root, and the jaw will remain strong with age, preventing bone loss that can affect the shape of the face.

Wear over time. Implants can last as long as natural teeth if you take good care of them. Dental implants consistently outperform bridges in longevity studies. The titanium post itself can last a lifetime, while the crown part usually lasts 20–25 years. A dental bridge may weaken over time due to pressure on adjacent teeth and may require restoration.

Procedure complexity. Implant treatment is usually performed in two stages. In the first stage, the implant is placed into the jaw. This is usually done under local anesthesia. Implants can only be placed in bone that is dense enough to hold them. If the jawbone does not have sufficient volume, the dentist can solve this problem using a bone graft. The second stage of implantation is the placement of the crown three to six months after the implant itself is placed.

Despite being a surgical procedure, most patients find implant placement comfortable. Modern techniques and anesthesia make the process quite manageable. Many patients return to work the next day, although some swelling and minor discomfort are normal for several days.

When placing dental bridges, the density of the jawbone is not important. Bridge placement involves grinding down adjacent teeth, which requires local anesthesia. Some patients experience sensitivity afterward, especially if the supporting teeth have not previously had dental treatment. During the first visit, the dentist will reshape adjacent teeth next to the bridge site and take an impression to create a shape that matches your natural teeth.

During your next visit, the dentist will fix the bridge in place and check the correctness and comfort of the bite. The bridge placement process itself is usually comfortable, although you may need time to get used to the new bite.

Cost. A dental bridge is usually cheaper than a dental implant because it is a simpler procedure that requires fewer dental visits.

Dental implant treatment usually takes longer and requires a healing period. Implants are also made from high-quality materials. The implant fixture and abutment (a small post attached to the top of the implant that supports the replacement tooth) are made of titanium, and the crown is made of ceramic or zirconia to achieve a natural look. Initially, bridges often cost less than implants. However, long-term costs tell a different story. Bridges usually need replacement every 10–15 years, while implants can last up to 25 years with proper care, and sometimes even longer.

Post-procedure care. Regardless of whether you have a bridge or an implant, you will need to carefully care for your oral cavity both after the procedure and in the long term. Flossing may be slightly more difficult with a bridge, but the dentist will provide all necessary instructions on how to care for it properly.

Pros of dental bridges:

• Do not require bone grafting or invasive surgery, which may be necessary for implants;
• Lower initial cost than dental implants, especially for replacing one tooth; faster way to replace missing teeth compared to dental implants;
• Can be used in patients for whom implant treatment is not suitable due to health conditions.

Cons of dental bridges:

•  Require grinding of adjacent teeth for placement;
• Service life is not as long as implants;
• Cleaning and care require slightly more effort;

Since the root part of the prosthetic tooth is absent, jawbone atrophy may occur over time.

Pros of implants:

•  Titanium implant screws are inserted into the jawbone and fuse with it over time, replacing the tooth root;
•  The implant tooth feels like a natural tooth;
• The implant filling the gap in the jawbone prevents bone loss, eliminating problems such as tooth loss and jaw fractures in old age;
•  The implant can be placed without damaging adjacent teeth;
• Implants are strong and durable.

Cons of implants:

• Higher price;
•  Longer treatment period;
• Surgical intervention in the oral cavity.

What to choose: bridge or implant

Choosing between a dental bridge and an implant can be difficult, especially when you are looking for a long-term solution to replace a missing tooth. Both options have their advantages and limitations, and the right choice often depends on oral health, budget, and personal preferences.

Both bridges and implants can successfully restore function and appearance, although they offer different advantages and maintenance requirements.

If you are facing the choice between an implant or a bridge, remember that the first condition for being satisfied with treatment is cooperation with a reliable dentist. Therefore, making this decision without expert support may lead to disappointment. Our experienced dentists can help you determine which treatment is most suitable for your situation. Do not make a decision about an implant or a bridge without consulting specialists of the YAREMA DENTAL dental clinic.

This article does not replace a medical consultation. For complete and personalized information, please consult your dentist.