If you’ve lost a tooth or are about to, you may be wondering what the best solution is for replacing it. You have multiple options, including a dental bridge and a dental implant. But which option is better? Your choice may depend on your aesthetic goals, functional needs, oral health situation, and even your budget. You and your dentist will be able to determine which option is right for you during a consultation.

Replacing a missing tooth is more than just restoring your smile, it’s about maintaining oral function, bone structure, and long-term health. That’s why it’s important to carefully evaluate the pros and cons of a dental bridge vs implant before making your decision.

Comparing Dental Bridges and Dental Implants

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges were once the only solution for replacing a missing tooth, aside from a removable partial denture. These restorations are secured in place using the teeth on either side of the empty socket (abutment teeth). Though a more fixed option than a partial denture, dental bridges require that healthy teeth be drilled down and can sometimes lead to these teeth becoming decayed or infected over time. Dental bridges generally last between 5 and 15 years, depending on how well a person cares for them. Though a less expensive solution upfront than dental implants, they may end up costing you more if they need to be fixed or replaced multiple times throughout their lifetime.

Pros of Dental Bridges:

• Faster Treatment Time: Most bridges can be completed in just a couple of visits, making this a convenient option for patients looking for a quick solution.
• Affordable Initial Cost: Compared to dental implants, dental bridges are typically more budget-friendly upfront.
• Non-Surgical Option: Since placing a bridge doesn’t require surgery, it’s often a preferred method for patients who want to avoid surgical procedures.

Cons of Dental Bridges:

• Alters Healthy Teeth: To secure a dental bridge, the adjacent teeth must be filed down, which can compromise their strength over time.
• Limited Longevity: Even with good care, bridges usually require replacement within 10 to 15 years.
• Does Not Preserve Bone: A dental bridge does not stimulate the jawbone, which means bone loss may occur beneath the missing tooth area.
• Risk of Decay or Infection: Altered teeth supporting the bridge are more vulnerable to decay and gum disease.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the modern tooth replacement option due to their permanent, natural function and appearance. One great benefit of dental implants is that they’re designed to only replace the tooth that was lost. They don’t require other teeth to be altered and are surgically inserted directly into the jawbone like a natural tooth root. This makes dental implants one of the healthiest and longest-lasting tooth replacement options available. With proper maintenance, dental implants can easily last the rest of your life. In addition to this superior level of stability and function, dental implants are custom-designed to look and feel like a natural tooth. No one will be able to tell which teeth are real and which ones have been replaced!

Pros of Dental Implants:

• Preserves Jawbone: By integrating with your jawbone, implants help prevent bone loss and maintain facial structure.
• Long-Term Value: Although implants have a higher initial cost, they typically last a lifetime, making them more cost-effective in the long run.
• Natural Look & Feel: Implants are custom-made to match your surrounding teeth in shape and color, offering the most natural appearance.
• No Impact on Other Teeth: Dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, leaving healthy teeth untouched.

Cons of Dental Implants:

• Surgical Procedure Required: Implant placement involves oral surgery, which means healing time and minor surgical risks.
• Higher Upfront Investment: Implants cost more initially than dental bridges.
• Time-Intensive: The entire process, including healing and restoration, may take several months.

When Is a Dental Bridge the Better Option?

In some cases, a dental bridge may be the more practical solution:

• If you have weakened jawbone density and don't want or qualify for a bone graft.
• If your adjacent teeth already have large fillings or require crowns.
• If you’re seeking a more affordable or quicker solution.
• If you prefer to avoid surgery or cannot undergo surgical procedures due to health concerns.

So, is a dental bridge better than an implant in all cases? Not necessarily, but depending on oral and medical conditions, it may be a more suitable option for some patients.

When Is a Dental Implant the Better Option?

Dental implants are generally the best long-term choice if you:

• Are in good oral and general health.
• Want to preserve your jawbone and avoid facial sagging?
• Prefer a solution that doesn’t compromise other healthy teeth.
• Seek the most natural look and feel in a replacement tooth.
• Are willing to invest in a long-term solution.

If you’re wondering whether a dental bridge is better than an implant, dental implants typically offer more health and aesthetic benefits over time, even if the initial cost is higher.

Schedule Your Appointment

Are you not sure which tooth replacement option is right for you? Many patients ask us, "What is better, a dental bridge or an implant?" The answer depends on your unique needs and goals. At Schaumburg Dental Studio, our friendly team is here to help you make the best choice for your smile and lifestyle. Schedule a consultation in Schaumburg, IL, and find out whether a dental bridge or implant is right for you!