Dental implants and bridges are two possible options for replacing missing teeth. They work differently, and neither is best for every person. The right choice depends on oral health, the condition of neighbouring teeth, bone support, preferences, maintenance and cost.
An implant is placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or other restoration. Planning may include examination, imaging where appropriate, a healing period and one or more restorative stages. Suitability can be affected by gum health, bone support, medical factors and smoking.
Implants require careful daily cleaning and ongoing professional maintenance.
A bridge replaces a missing tooth by supporting a replacement tooth from neighbouring teeth or other planned supports. The design depends on the gap and the condition of nearby teeth. Some bridges require preparing supporting teeth, so the implications for those teeth should be discussed before treatment.
Cleaning under and around a bridge is important and may require special tools or techniques.
Your dentist can assess the gap, gum health, neighbouring teeth, bone support, general health, expectations and budget. A removable denture or another approach may also be appropriate. Ask about benefits, limitations, risks, expected maintenance and the likely treatment stages. Avoid choosing based on a single factor alone.
Ask what options are suitable for your mouth, whether any preparatory treatment is needed, how long the process may take, what maintenance will involve and what costs are expected. Recommendations should follow an individual clinical assessment.
For advice tailored to your situation, arrange an assessment with the clinic. Information on this page is general and does not replace a clinical examination.