Dental Implant vs Bridge: The Pros and Cons of Each

Losing a baby tooth can be one of a child's fondest memories. Losing a tooth as an adult can be a nightmare and a serious dental emergency.

How should you respond? What are the best dental procedures to fill in the gap left by your lost tooth?

Read our comparison guide to learn the pros and cons of dental implant vs bridge procedures.

Pros and Cons of Implants

Dental implants are strong and durable. They can last for years with proper care.

They don't rely on adjacent teeth for support. They also keep the jawbone from deteriorating. This preserves bone density and prevents bone loss.

The false teeth on top of an implant look and work like a natural tooth. They don't negatively affect speech or eating.   

Implants are low-maintenance. They only require a bit of extra brushing and flossing.

The requirements for implants are stricter than bridges. You may not be a candidate if you have certain medical conditions, your jaw isn't healthy enough, or you're under 18.

Getting dental implants is a long procedure. It can take months and require multiple office visits. There are also risks associated with the surgery, including:

• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Sinus damage
• Improper placement

Implants are more expensive than bridges and less likely to be covered by insurance. They're also more cost-effective because they last longer. They have a 97% success rate, and it's unlikely they'll ever need to be replaced.

Pros and Cons of Dental Bridges

Getting a dental bridge is a less invasive procedure. It also requires less investment in terms of time and money.

A dental bridge covers the gap from missing teeth but alters the teeth around it and doesn't stimulate the jawbone like implants do. This can compromise their health and lead to bone loss.

65% of respondents in a recent survey said they brush their teeth twice a day. 3% admitted to doing it less than once a day.

Patients who can't keep up with normal oral care recommendations may want to avoid bridges. They require extra maintenance, and getting between the interconnected teeth can be difficult. 

Dental bridges wear down quicker than implants. You may have to go back to the dentist to replace them every few years. 

Choosing Between Dental Implant vs. Bridge Procedures

Knowing the pros and cons is the first step in deciding between dental implant vs. bridge procedures. The next is to consider factors such as convenience and cost.

How much time and money are you willing to spend on treatment? Are you prepared to undergo oral surgery? How much effort are you willing to put into maintenance?



Think about these questions and ask your dentist for more information. They can help you decide which one is right for you.

Where to Go to Fix a Missing Tooth

If you have a missing tooth, it can be scary but taking the time to find the best method to fix it can lead to the best results. You can compare the dental implant and bridge procedures based on factors such as cost, convenience, and candidacy to make an informed decision.

Ocoee Dental Care is led by Dr. An Ta, a dentist and life coach who is passionate about helping others. He has extensive experience and education that helps him provide the best results to his patients. You can schedule an appointment today to get the help you need.