Losing a tooth can affect more than just your appearance — it can impact how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. If you’re looking to restore your smile, two of the most popular options are dental bridges and dental implants.
But how do you choose the right one for you?
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge literally “bridges the gap” left by a missing tooth. It consists of a false tooth (pontic) supported by crowns on the natural teeth either side of the gap.
✅ Pros of a Bridge:
Quick treatment (typically 2–3 appointments)
No surgery involved
Lower initial cost than implants
Natural-looking results
⚠️ Cons of a Bridge:
Involves trimming healthy adjacent teeth
Can increase the risk of decay or root issues in supporting teeth
Does not preserve jawbone structure
May need replacement every 7–15 years
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root. Once healed, a crown is fitted on top, mimicking the function and look of a natural tooth — without affecting neighbouring teeth.
✅ Pros of an Implant:
Helps preserve jawbone and facial structure
Does not affect surrounding teeth
Can last decades with proper care
Feels and functions like a real tooth
Easier to clean and maintain
⚠️ Cons of an Implant:
Higher initial cost
Requires surgery and healing time (3–6 months)
Not suitable for everyone (e.g., severe bone loss)
Longer overall treatment time
Quick Comparison: Bridge vs. Implant
| Feature | Dental Bridge | Dental Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure | Non-surgical | Surgical |
| Treatment time | 1–3 weeks | 3–6 months |
| Impact on other teeth | Involves neighbouring teeth | Leaves other teeth untouched |
| Bone preservation | No | Yes |
| Longevity | 7–15 years | 15+ years (often much longer) |
| Initial cost | Lower | Higher |
Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between a bridge and an implant depends on several factors:
Your overall oral health and bone levels
Number of missing teeth
Budget and timeline
Preference for surgical or non-surgical treatments
👉 While implants are often considered the gold standard, a bridge can be ideal if the surrounding teeth need crowns or if implants are not suitable for medical or financial reasons.
Can They Replace More Than One Tooth?
Absolutely!
A bridge can span several teeth.
Implant-supported bridges (e.g. two implants supporting three teeth) are also common and very effective.
Final Thoughts
Both bridges and implants offer excellent solutions for replacing missing teeth. The best choice is the one that matches your needs and long-term dental goals.
At London Wellzone Clinics, we take the time to assess your oral health and recommend the most suitable treatment — so you can enjoy a confident smile once again.
📞 Ready to restore your smile?
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident you.