Replacement · Tips
Implant or bridge: how to choose when replacing a tooth
To replace a missing tooth, the two fixed solutions are an implant and a bridge. An implant replaces the root without touching the neighbouring teeth; a bridge rests on them. The right choice depends mainly on the condition of the neighbouring teeth and the bone.
The dental implant
- A titanium root is placed in the bone, then a crown is fixed onto it.
- The neighbouring teeth remain intact, and the jawbone is better preserved.
- Treatment usually takes 3 to 6 months, the time it takes for the implant to fuse with the bone.
The bridge
- A bridge is a suspended crown, bonded to the two prepared neighbouring teeth.
- It is quicker to make, in a few weeks, with no surgery.
- It is a good option when the neighbouring teeth already need a crown.
How to choose
- If the neighbouring teeth are healthy, an implant avoids having to file them down.
- If there is not enough bone or your general health makes surgery inadvisable, a bridge may be preferable.
- The dentist presents both options to you with a cost estimate during the consultation.
Key points
- Implant: preserves the neighbouring teeth, longer treatment.
- Bridge: quicker, but rests on the neighbouring teeth.
- The choice is made after an examination and an X-ray.