Dental Bridges vs. Implants: Which Option Is Right for You?

Losing teeth is a common occurrence. According to estimates, 69% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 experience at least one tooth loss, and by the time they are 74, they may have lost the majority of their permanent teeth.

Once you lose a tooth, you should have an immediate replacement to maintain the structure of the jaw and face and avoid losing confidence associated with tooth loss. You can obtain replacements for lost teeth in several ways, including dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures, whether traditional or implant-supported.

In this article, we explain the difference between dental implants and bridges, what is the best choice for you among them, and what are the long-term benefits of dental bridges vs. implants, so keep reading for more.

Differences between dental bridge and implant

Although dental implants and dental bridges are designed for the same purpose of providing natural-looking results for missing teeth, each has a different method of use, advantages, and disadvantages. What suits you among them may not suit others. Therefore, we provided you with a detailed comparison between dental bridges versus dental implants to find out which one is the best for you.

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Dental procedure differences

Any dental procedures begin with an initial consultation, which includes a thorough examination by the dentist to assess oral health, the number of missing teeth, and other factors taken into consideration to determine the best treatment plan for the affected person.

Dental bridge procedure explained:

Dental bridges are false teeth that are held in place by the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. They are typically made from porcelain or plastic and are colored to match your natural teeth. They can replace one missing tooth or several.

The preparation of the teeth for the bridge involves reshaping the abutments so that the bridge can fit properly. Impressions are taken to achieve a custom fit, after which a temporary bridge is fashioned and placed to protect the prepared teeth until the permanent one is ready from the lab. When ready, the dentist fits the bridge, making any needed adjustments, then permanently cements it in place.

Dental implant procedure steps:

Dental implants are typically made from a metal alloy called titanium. They are surgically screwed into your jawbone to anchor a crown or bridge in place. A dental bridge is anchored by the teeth on either side of your missing tooth. They often consist of porcelain or plastic, fabricated to match the color of your surrounding natural teeth. They can also replace one or more missing teeth.

Some of the major steps associated with the implant placement are that a small titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone to act as a replacement root for the missing tooth; once the implant has been placed, several months are needed to heal, a period during which the bone integrates with the implant. Once this heals, a custom crown is fabricated and fastened to the implant. Ligation of the crown onto the implant completes.

Long-term effects of dental bridges vs implants

There are many important differences when considering the long-term effects of dental bridges versus implants, which depend on the following factors: type of bridge, materials used, oral hygiene practiced, and individual health conditions.

Longevity of dental bridges:

The longevity of dental bridges typically last five to seven years, but many patients are able to enjoy them for even longer with the right care, which includes regular dental checkups, avoiding excessive force on the bridge, such as when chewing hard foods or grinding teeth, and practicing good oral hygiene. Overall, dental bridges are not as long-lasting as dental implants.

Longevity of dental implants

Dental implants work like artificial roots, stimulating the jawbone and stimulating its density. This may prevent bone loss, common when teeth are missing. Furthermore, dental implants last 15 years or more and can last a lifetime with proper care. Implants work generally better than bridges in solutions to oral problems, both for aesthetics and long-term oral health.

Cost comparison dental bridge and implant

The cost of both dental bridges and implants involves different factors. Depending on material usage and the case difficulty involved.

Cost of dental bridges

Dental bridges are relatively less expensive. However, in the long run, it should be considered that bridges may require replacements or adjustments to increase the overall cost.

Cost of dental implants

Implants are more expensive upfront; they are highly long-lasting, usually lasting 15 years or more and sometimes even a lifetime when properly taken care of. It can be considered more cost-effective.

Regarding the attempt to cover the insurance for both, we find that dental bridges are likely to be covered by insurance, but dental implants are less likely to be covered by insurance.

Our Internationalclinic offers special prices and discounted packages for both dental implants and dental bridges. Below is a table showing the cost of dental implants at our clinics.

Contact us to learn more.

Difference between dental care options in dental implant and bridges

When comparing dental implants and bridges, the first key difference is maintenance. Dental implants are cared for much like natural teeth by regular brushing and flossing, along with routine dental visits.

Bridges require equally good oral hygiene; however, cleaning under them requires special attention to avoid decay in the supporting teeth. This difference in maintenance can make all the difference in long-term health around the teeth and gums.

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How age and health conditions influence the choice between dental bridges and implants

A 2014 study indicated that the age of dental implant placement, outlining that both younger and older patients could be potential candidates for implants, provided particular attention to particular features. It is important to underline that in the young patient, dentition and bone maturity are the critical factors, while in the elderly patient, other complications might arise regarding bone quality and systemic health. Eventually, it leads to the consideration of an individualized approach depending on the case rather than strictly following the age limit for the implant placement.

psychological effects of tooth loss

A 2022 study indicated the extent of the impact of dental implants on patients' quality of life, finding significant improvements in oral function, aesthetics, and psychological well-being. It highlights the importance of patient-centered approaches in evaluating the success of dental implant procedures.

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The bottom line

In the end, we can differentiate between the advantages and disadvantages of dental implants and dental bridges, which include: 

Pros and cons of dental implants

Pros:

• Can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

• Provide stimulation to prevent deterioration of the jawbone.

• Look and act like one's real teeth.

• Do not interfere with other teeth.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost.

• Requires surgical placement and healing.

• It takes longer to complete the entire process.

Pros and cons of dental bridges

Pros:

• Less upfront cost.

• Faster placement without surgery.

• Return chewing and speaking abilities to normal.

Cons:

• Should last 5 to 7 years and possibly have to be replaced.

• Require preparation of adjacent teeth.

• Do not stimulate jawbones. So loses a natural-looking appearance with age.

According to the patient's needs, the treating doctor can choose the most suitable treatment path and the best technique for their health condition.

FAQs

Is it better to have an implant or a bridge?

Bridges are initially less invasive and more economical, but implants are typically thought to be superior for long-term durability and jawbone health.

What are the disadvantages of dental bridges?

Bridges do not stop jawbone loss, and they may need to be replaced after a few years. They may also require the adjacent teeth to be altered.

What lasts longer, a bridge or an implant? 

Compared to bridges, dental implants usually last longer—up to a lifetime with the right maintenance.

How long do dental bridges last?

 Dental bridges typically last 5 to 7 years, depending on oral health and maintenance.

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