Is a Dental Bridge or Implant Right for You?

Dental bridges and implants are two effective, natural-looking ways to replace missing teeth. Bridges are often best for replacing multiple teeth, while implants can replace one or several teeth. However, it is not always an either-or situation. Using bridges and implants together can restore a patient’s smile to its full function. For many, it comes down to their dental condition and budget.

About dental bridges

A dental bridge is an artificial teeth replacement that uses surrounding teeth, dental crowns (toothlike caps), or dental implants as anchors. The artificial teeth (pontics) will be cemented to these mechanisms so the patient never has to remove them. With good oral hygiene, they can last up to 15 years. This makes bridges a cost-effective option for patients missing multiple teeth in a row.

In some cases, a dentist may recommend a dental bridge to replace a single tooth. For instance, a patient missing only one front tooth may benefit from a bridge. While a dental implant could also be an option, a patient may choose a bridge for its affordability and faster recovery time.

Types

Dental bridges come in many forms. A dentist will look at the number of missing teeth, the location, and the adjacent teeth to determine which will be the most effective restoration. Take a closer look at the four main types of bridges here:

• Maryland bridge: Supported by metal wings on the backs of two natural teeth, one on each end.
• Traditional bridge: Supported by two dental crowns, one on each end.
• Implant-supported bridge: Supported by dental implants on each end.
• Cantilever bridge: Supported by one dental crown.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a metal post that acts as an artificial tooth root. The dentist will implant it into the jawbone, promoting a process in which the post fuses with the jawbone (osseointegration). This process allows the implant to act like a real tooth root. An added benefit is that it helps prevent the jawbone from deteriorating due to a lack of use.

Since implants must be surgically installed and allowed to fully fuse with the jawbone, getting them can take several months. Once osseointegration is complete, the dentist will place dental crowns on each implant to fully restore the smile. Like bridges, implants are permanent, natural-looking tooth replacements.

Dental implants and implant-supported bridges

As mentioned, dental implants can be used on their own or as a part of a dental bridge. A patient with one or two missing teeth in different parts of the mouth may benefit from getting single dental implants. Alternatively, a patient with a healthy jawbone density who is missing multiple teeth in a row or all their teeth may be a good candidate for implant-supported bridges.