Dental implant or bridge: which is better?
In short
To replace a single tooth, an implant is often the preferred choice, because it does not require filing down the healthy neighbouring teeth and it helps preserve the bone. A bridge is still a valid option in some cases, for example when the adjacent teeth already need a crown. The choice is made by the dentist after an examination.
Implants and bridges: the main differences
A traditional bridge is a fixed prosthesis that spans the gap by resting on the two neighbouring teeth. To do this, those teeth have to be filed down and covered with a crown, even if they are healthy.
An implant, on the other hand, replaces the missing root: a titanium screw placed in the bone, onto which a crown is fixed. The adjacent teeth are left intact and the bone is once again stimulated by chewing, which limits its resorption.
Bridges still have their advantages: they do not require surgery and can be completed more quickly. A bridge may be the right choice when the neighbouring teeth have already been heavily restored, or when surgery is not advisable for health reasons.
Dental implant or removable denture?
A removable denture, partial or full, rests on the gums and is taken out for cleaning. It is less invasive, but over time it can lose stability: the bone underneath keeps shrinking, and relines or adhesives are often needed.
Implants give you fixed teeth and chewing that feels closer to natural. There is also an in-between solution: a removable denture that clips onto a few implants, more stable than a traditional denture.
What can replace a missing tooth?
There are three main options:
- an implant with a crown, for one or more teeth;
- a fixed bridge supported by the neighbouring teeth;
- a removable denture, partial or full, possibly anchored to implants.
What you should avoid is leaving the gap empty for a long time. Without a tooth, the bone resorbs and the neighbouring teeth tend to shift, changing the way your teeth bite together.
Which solution is right for you is decided by the dentist, after assessing your bone, gums, neighbouring teeth and general health. You can read more about the stages of treatment on our page dedicated to dental implantology and fixed teeth.
Talk it through at a visit
An assessment visit at our clinic in Via Cesare Pavese 135, in the EUR area, will let you learn about the options suited to your case and decide calmly.
