Dental implant or bridge: what is the difference?

What is the difference between a dental implant and a bridge?

An implant is a small post placed in the jawbone that takes the place of the tooth root and supports a crown on top. A conventional bridge does not replace the root: the replacement tooth is supported by the teeth either side of the gap, which are prepared to carry it.

Who may be suitable for each?

Suitability is decided by assessment. Implants depend on the health of your gums and on having enough suitable bone at the site, while a bridge depends on the condition and strength of the neighbouring teeth — and your general health and habits matter for both.

• Gum health, and whether any gum disease is under control
• The amount and quality of bone at the site of the missing tooth
• The condition of the teeth either side of the gap
• Your bite, your medical history and how you look after your teeth

Is one option better than the other?

Neither is automatically better. An implant avoids involving the neighbouring teeth, while a bridge can be a sensible choice in some situations — including where the adjacent teeth already need restoring. The right answer depends on your mouth, not on the option in general.

What are the alternatives?

A removable denture is another way to replace one or more missing teeth, and in some cases monitoring the gap without replacing the tooth is a reasonable option. Your dentist should set out every option that applies to you, including doing nothing.

How long does treatment take?

Implant treatment usually runs in stages over several months, because the implant needs time to integrate with the bone before the final restoration is fitted. Bridge treatment is normally completed over a smaller number of appointments. Your own timeline is explained at your assessment.

How long will either last?

Both can last many years, and neither can be guaranteed. Longevity depends on your oral hygiene, your bite, your general health and keeping up hygiene and review appointments.