When you lose a tooth, two of the most common replacement options are a dental bridge and a dental implant. Both restore the appearance and function of your smile — but they work very differently and have different implications for your long-term oral health.
How a Dental Bridge Works
A bridge uses the two teeth on either side of the gap (called abutment teeth) as anchors for an artificial tooth (pontic) in between. The abutment teeth must be ground down significantly to accept the crowns that support the bridge. Bridges are typically completed in two appointments and do not require surgery.
How a Dental Implant Works
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone where the tooth root used to be. After a healing period of 3–6 months, a custom crown is attached. The implant is completely independent — it does not affect adjacent teeth at all.
The Key Advantages of Implants
Implants preserve the jawbone (bone loss begins within months of losing a tooth), do not require modification of adjacent teeth, and can last a lifetime with proper care. Bridges average 10–15 years before needing replacement, and the abutment teeth — which have been ground down — become vulnerable to future decay and fracture.
When a Bridge May Be Preferable
Bridges are less expensive upfront, completed faster, and do not require surgery. They may be preferable for patients who do not have sufficient bone for an implant, who want to avoid surgical treatment, or who have adjacent teeth that already need crowns. At Smileworks Dental in Calgary, we discuss both options thoroughly at your consultation.