Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridge
Dental bridges vs implants – which is right for you?
If you’ve got one or more missing teeth and are exploring ways to fix them, two popular options are dental implants and dental bridges. Both are super effective ways to fix missing teeth, but they have their differences in terms of how they look, the impact they have on your existing teeth, cost, and the procedures involved.
It is important that you understand the differences before deciding which is best, and here at Smile Stories, we know how important it is for our patients to choose the right option that fits their lifestyle, budget, and oral health needs which is why we’re here to support you every step of the way.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a long-lasting solution for tooth replacement that involves surgically placing a titanium post into your jawbone that serves as a root for a prosthetic tooth, which is later attached to the implant. The procedure typically involves a healing period of several months to allow the implant to fuse with the bone, a process known as osseointegration. Once healed, an abutment is placed on the implant to connect the artificial tooth which is known as a crown. Dental implants are a great option because crowns can be made to look and feel exactly like your existing teeth, so no one will ever know you were missing one in the first place!
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge, on the other hand, is a non-surgical option that literally ‘bridges’ the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It involves attaching a false tooth (or teeth) to the adjacent natural teeth or dental crowns, and these supporting teeth, known as abutments, anchor the bridge in place. While a bridge can replace one or more missing teeth, it usually means that the natural teeth on either side of the gap may need modifying in some way (but not always).
Dental implant vs bridge
Appearance – Which looks more natural?
Both dental implants and bridges are designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, but there are subtle differences in how they look
Dental implants
Implants offer the most natural, realistic appearance. Because they are embedded into the jawbone, they mimic the natural root structure of a tooth, which provides great stability and a more natural-looking alignment with the rest of your existing teeth. Since each implant is crafted to match your other teeth in colour and shape, you will barely notice the difference from your natural teeth. Dental implants maintain the natural contour of your gums, preventing the ‘sunken’ appearance that can sometimes happen when teeth and bone are missing.
Dental bridges
These days, dental bridges can look very natural, especially when made from high-quality materials and we pride ourselves on how natural our dental bridges look. However, because the false tooth sits on top of the gums and relies on surrounding teeth for support, the bridge may not look as natural as an implant in some cases, particularly if the surrounding gums recede over time. Another consideration is that dental bridges do not prevent the jawbone under the missing tooth from deteriorating, which can affect the shape of your face in the long term.
Impact on existing teeth
One of the most important considerations when choosing between a dental implant and a bridge is the impact on your surrounding teeth.
Dental implants
Implants do not affect your existing teeth, and that’s because the implant is placed directly into the jawbone, and so it functions independently of the other teeth. This means that your natural teeth remain intact and unaltered, which is a significant advantage for long-term dental health. Dental implants help preserve bone density in the jaw, preventing the bone loss that can occur when teeth are missing.
Dental bridges
A traditional bridge requires that the healthy teeth on either side of the gap be ground down to accommodate crowns that will support the bridge. This can weaken the supporting teeth and increase the risk of future dental issues such as decay or fractures. While these supporting teeth are capped with crowns, they still undergo a significant alteration that may affect their longevity.
The cost of implants v bridges – how do they compare?
Cost is often a deciding factor when choosing between a dental implant and a bridge. The overall cost of each treatment can vary depending on several factors, but remember we have payment plans available for all of our treatments, so you can spread the cost in a way that suits you.
In general, there isn’t too much of a difference in cost, but remember that implants are considered a more permanent solution, often lasting a lifetime with proper care. That’s not to say that bridges don’t last for a long time, but it is something to take into consideration.
The procedure – what can you expect?
The procedures for dental implants and bridges are slightly different, both in terms of complexity and the time taken. But don’t let that put you off, it’s all worth it in the end!
Dental implants
Getting a dental implant is a multi-step process that usually takes several months to complete. First, the implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone. This is followed by a healing period of a few months, where the implant fuses with the bone. Once healing is complete, an abutment is attached, and finally, a custom-made crown is placed on top. While the process is longer and more involved, the end result is a durable, natural-looking replacement tooth that can last a lifetime.
Dental bridges
The process of getting a dental bridge is slightly quicker and arguably less invasive. After the initial consultation, we will prepare the abutment teeth by reshaping them to fit the crowns that will support the bridge. Impressions of your teeth are then taken and sent to a dental lab, where the bridge is custom-made. Once the bridge is ready, it is cemented into place. The entire process typically takes two to three appointments over a few weeks, making it a faster option for tooth replacement. However, the long-term impact on your natural teeth and potential for future repairs are factors to consider.
So, dental bridge vs implant – which option is best for you?
Choosing between a dental implant and a bridge of course depends on many things, including your overall dental health, the condition of your surrounding teeth, your budget, and your personal preferences.
If you’re looking for a permanent, durable solution that doesn’t affect your adjacent teeth, dental implants are often the best choice. They offer superior aesthetics, prevent bone loss, and are a long-term investment in your oral health.
If you’re seeking a quicker, less invasive option with a lower upfront cost, a dental bridge may be the better option, especially if the adjacent teeth are already in need of crowns.
At Smile Stories, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your smile. Whether you’re considering dental implants or a dental bridge, our experienced team can provide the expert advice and personalised care you need to restore your confidence and improve your oral health.
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