If you have one or more teeth missing and would like to get the space restored, your dentist may discuss the option of having a bridge or an implant placed to help you. Over the last few decades, advances in technology, research, and techniques have made restoring missing spaces more predictable and comfortable.
Before your dentist can recommend either replacement solution, they will conduct a thorough oral examination to establish your suitability and explain which options are most viable for you.
What is the difference between a dental bridge and an implant?
A bridge, also known as a fixed partial denture, is a prosthetic tooth or teeth permanently fixed into your mouth using the teeth either side of the space as anchors. Some preparation of those anchor teeth is usually required.
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth or teeth fastened permanently into your mouth by means of a titanium or ceramic screw placed into the jaw. The bone fuses around the screw and the artificial tooth is then attached. Implant prosthetics do not rely on the health or structure of anchor teeth.
Dental implants
Dental implants are designed to be a strong and permanent replacement for missing teeth. For implants to be successful, you need enough bone material in your jaw to hold and support the implant. If teeth have been missing for a long time, your gums and jaw bone may have receded and you may need bone-graft treatment before the implant can be placed.
The great advantage of implants is that they make it easier to keep your mouth healthy. You can brush and floss them along with your natural teeth, and the implant performs and feels more like a natural tooth than other prosthetic options.
Dental bridges
Dental bridges need care and attention because they involve three or more dental crowns connected together to form a bridge. Keeping your teeth clean can be more challenging, so your dentist or dental hygienist will give you instructions for cleaning and flossing under the false teeth.
Long term durability
Both options for tooth replacement are well researched. If both are viable solutions, the implant is often considered the gold standard because it does not require healthy tooth structure to be removed from anchor teeth.
Dental implants are durable and can be easier to care for over the long term. The implant’s metal root fuses with the jaw bone and creates a stable base. Dental bridges are subject to wear and tear and rely on the health and stability of natural teeth.
Talk to your dentist about your options. They will assess your suitability for either treatment.