A dentist wearing gloves and a mask shows a dental model to a patient sitting in a dental chair, who is looking at it and smiling.

Which Is Better, a Bridge or an Implant?

/in , /by

Losing a tooth can be frustrating, and it can make it hard to speak clearly or eat the way you want. That said, choosing the right replacement doesn’t have to be difficult. The two most common options are dental bridges and implants. Both can restore your smile, but they each have their upsides and downsides. At Indiana Emergency Dental, we want to talk to you more about getting bridges and implants in Indianapolis and Bloomington, Indiana.

What Is a Bridge vs. an Implant?

Bridges and implants are slightly different (and sometimes can both be used at the same time).

  • A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the gap for support and “bridges” the gap between two teeth with a prosthetic.
  • A dental implant replaces the entire tooth—root and all—using a small titanium post that fuses with your jawbone. Two or more dental implants can be used to support a bridge, in some cases.

Which Option Is Best?

The answer is: It depends.

  • Bridges are great for quick results. They’re non-surgical and can usually be completed in two visits. The downside is that you have to put crowns on the teeth beside the gap, which does cause some damage.
  • Implants take a little longer to complete, but they are more durable and have a more natural feel. They replace your tooth’s root completely, which can help protect the jawbone.

Learn More About Bridges and Implants in Bloomington and Indianapolis, IN

Ready to replace your missing tooth? Contact us to schedule an appointment at Indiana Emergency Dental in Bloomington or Indianapolis, Indiana, at 1-463-276-0541. We are here to walk you through the options, so you understand how each works and what might be best for you.