Losing a tooth affects more than your smile. The teeth on either side can drift into the gap, the tooth above or below can over-erupt, and the bone where the root used to be slowly shrinks. Replacing a missing tooth helps protect your bite and the teeth you still have.
Two common fixed options are a dental bridge and a dental implant. Both can look and work like natural teeth, but they are built very differently.
What is a dental bridge?
A traditional bridge “bridges” the gap with a false tooth held in place by crowns on the teeth on either side.
How it works: The neighbouring teeth are shaped to hold crowns. A single piece, made of the two crowns and the false tooth in between, is cemented onto them.
Timeline: Usually two appointments a few weeks apart.
Lifespan: Often around 10 to 15 years, sometimes longer with good care.
Things to know: The supporting teeth have to be reduced to hold the crowns. If they are healthy and untouched, that means removing sound tooth structure. If they already have large fillings or crowns, a bridge can be a sensible way to restore them at the same time.
What is a dental implant?
An implant replaces the root of the missing tooth as well as the visible part.
How it works: A small titanium post is placed in the jawbone. Over a few months, the bone bonds to it. A crown is then attached on top.
Timeline: Typically several months from start to finish, longer if bone grafting is needed first.
Lifespan: The implant itself can last for decades with good care. The crown on top may need replacing at some point.
Things to know: It needs a minor surgical procedure and enough healthy bone. Neighbouring teeth are not touched.
Bridge vs implant at a glance
| Dental bridge | Dental implant | |
|---|---|---|
| Neighbouring teeth | Reduced to hold crowns | Left untouched |
| Surgery | None | Minor surgery to place the post |
| Time to finish | A few weeks | Several months |
| Bone in the gap | Continues to shrink slowly | Helps preserve bone |
| Cleaning | Needs floss threaders or special brushes under the false tooth | Clean like a natural tooth |
| Typical lifespan | About 10 to 15 years | Often decades for the implant |
| Cost factors | Number of teeth involved, materials | Surgery, bone grafting, the crown |
Which is right for you?
A bridge may suit you if:
- The teeth next to the gap already need crowns
- You prefer to avoid surgery
- You want a faster result
- There is not enough bone for an implant, and grafting is not an option you want
An implant may suit you if:
- The neighbouring teeth are healthy and you want to leave them alone
- You have enough bone, or are open to grafting
- You want an option that can last for decades with good care
- You are comfortable with a longer timeline
Other options
- Resin-bonded bridge. A false tooth held by thin wings bonded to the back of the neighbouring teeth, with little or no reduction. Often used for front teeth.
- Removable partial denture. A lower-cost option that you take out to clean.
- Leaving the space. Sometimes appropriate for a back tooth that does not affect your bite, but it should be a considered decision, not a default.
Replacing missing teeth at Vigée Dental
We take a conservative approach: preserve healthy tooth structure wherever possible and build around your bite and long-term health. Our restorative dentistry includes fillings, crowns and bridges, and for more extensive tooth loss, full-mouth rehabilitation. Vigée Dental does not place implants. If an implant is the right choice for you, we refer you to a qualified provider for placement. We will walk you through every option that suits your situation. Book a consultation online.
Frequently asked questions
Is a bridge or an implant cheaper?
A bridge often costs less up front. An implant often costs more initially but may last longer and does not involve the neighbouring teeth. The right comparison depends on your situation.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is done with local anaesthetic. Many people have mild soreness for a few days afterwards.
Can a bridge be replaced with an implant later?
Often yes, if there is enough bone. Your dentist can assess this.
How long can I wait to replace a missing tooth?
Bone starts to shrink and teeth can start to shift within months, so it is worth planning sooner rather than later.