Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants: What’s the Difference?

Introduction

Losing a tooth can impact more than just your smile. It can make eating and speaking harder and even cause your other teeth to shift over time. If you’re looking for a solution, two of the most common options are dental bridges and dental implants. But how do they compare?

Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your oral health, budget, and long-term goals. In this article, we’ll explain the differences between dental bridges and implants so you can make the best decision for your smile.

What Are Dental Bridges?

A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of a false tooth (or teeth) held in place by crowns that are cemented onto the healthy teeth next to the gap.

Bridges are a popular choice because they don’t require surgery and can restore function and appearance relatively quickly. However, they do require modifying the adjacent healthy teeth to provide support.

Pros of Dental Bridges

• Less invasive than implants—no surgery required.
• Faster treatment—can be completed in about 2-3 weeks.
• More affordable upfront cost compared to implants.
• A good option for people who aren’t candidates for implants due to bone loss.

Cons of Dental Bridges

• Requires shaving down adjacent healthy teeth.
• Does not prevent bone loss in the missing tooth area.
• Typically lasts 10-15 years before needing replacement.
• Higher risk of decay or damage to supporting teeth over time.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a long-term tooth replacement option that mimics the structure of a natural tooth. It consists of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, serving as an artificial root. A custom-made crown is then attached to restore the look and function of a real tooth.

Unlike bridges, implants do not rely on surrounding teeth for support, making them a more independent and durable solution. They also help preserve jawbone density by preventing bone loss.

Pros of Dental Implants

• Can last a lifetime with proper care.
• Helps prevent bone loss and maintains jaw structure.
• Looks and functions like a natural tooth.
• Does not affect adjacent teeth.

Cons of Dental Implants

• More expensive upfront than bridges.
• Requires a longer healing period (3-6 months).
• Requires surgery, which may not be suitable for everyone.
• Not ideal for patients with significant bone loss unless a bone graft is done.

Dental Bridges vs. Dental Implants: Key Differences

Both options can effectively replace missing teeth, but implants offer a more permanent and natural-looking solution.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between dental bridges vs. dental implants depends on a few factors:

A dental bridge may be better if:

• You need a quicker, more affordable solution.
• You don’t want to undergo surgery.
• You have strong, healthy teeth next to the missing space.

A dental implant may be better if:

• You want a long-term, durable solution.
• You want to prevent bone loss in your jaw.
• You don’t want to alter surrounding healthy teeth.

Not sure which option is right for you? At BK Dental, we help patients in Toronto find the best tooth replacement option based on their needs and budget.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Getting a Dental Bridge

1. Your dentist will prepare the two healthy teeth next to the missing tooth by reshaping them to hold crowns.
2. Impressions will be taken to create a custom bridge.
3. A temporary bridge may be placed while your permanent one is made.
4. The final bridge is cemented into place, restoring your smile.

Getting a Dental Implant

1. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone.
2. Healing time (3-6 months) allows the bone to fuse with the implant.
3. Once healed, an abutment (connector) is placed on the implant.
4. A custom crown is attached to complete the tooth replacement.

Because implants require surgery and healing time, the process takes longer than getting a bridge.

Conclusion

Both dental bridges and dental implants are excellent solutions for replacing missing teeth, but they serve different needs. Bridges are quicker and more affordable, while implants provide a longer-lasting, more natural solution that helps preserve jawbone health.

If you’re trying to decide which option is best for you, schedule a consultation with BK Dental in Toronto. We’ll assess your needs, answer your questions, and help you find the best way to restore your smile with confidence!