When a tooth goes missing, the empty space affects more than your smile. It changes how you chew, shifts neighboring teeth out of position, and gradually weakens your jawbone. You have two main paths forward: a dental implant that mimics your tooth’s natural structure from root to crown, or a bridge that uses your existing teeth as anchors. Each approach addresses the problem differently, and the right choice depends on factors such as your oral health, timeline, and what matters most to you in a restoration.
At Naylor Family Dental and Implant Center, Dr. Naylor helps patients weigh these options based on their unique needs. With training from Indiana University and a focus on personalized care, our experienced team creates treatment plans tailored to your oral health and lifestyle.
How Single Dental Implants Work
Single dental implants consist of three parts: a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone, an abutment connecting the post to the restoration, and a custom crown that matches your natural teeth. The implant fuses with your bone over several months through osseointegration, creating a stable foundation that functions like a natural tooth root.
This process preserves the jawbone by stimulating it during chewing, preventing the bone loss that typically follows tooth extraction. Implants don’t require altering adjacent teeth, which helps maintain your overall dental structure. They can last decades with proper care, making them a long-term investment in your oral health.
How Dental Bridges Function
A dental bridge fills the gap left by a missing tooth by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side. The dentist reshapes these adjacent teeth to accommodate crowns that support the pontic (the replacement tooth) in the middle. Traditional bridges require healthy teeth on both sides of the gap.
Bridges restore your ability to chew and speak normally while maintaining your facial shape. The procedure typically takes two to three visits and doesn’t require surgery. Once cemented in place, bridges feel secure and function well for eating and speaking. Bridges can last five to 15 years with good oral hygiene.
Comparing Cost and Timeline
Dental implants generally cost more upfront because they involve surgery and a custom titanium post. The placement process takes several months because the implant must fuse with your jawbone before the final crown is placed. Most patients need three to six months between implant placement and crown attachment.
Bridges cost less initially and take only a few weeks from start to finish. You’ll receive a temporary restoration while the lab fabricates your permanent bridge, typically ready within two to three weeks. We work with multiple insurance providers, including Delta Dental PPO, Cigna Dental, and Aetna Dental, to help maximize your benefits. For patients without insurance, we offer financing through CareCredit, Proceed Finance, and Cherry, as well as an in-house dental membership plan.
Long-Term Maintenance and Durability
Implants require the same care as natural teeth: brushing twice daily, flossing, and regular dental hygiene appointments. They don’t decay, though the surrounding gum tissue needs proper care to prevent infection. With good maintenance, implants can last a lifetime.
Bridges need careful cleaning around and under the pontic to prevent decay in the supporting teeth. Special floss threaders help you clean beneath the bridge. The crowned teeth that support the bridge remain vulnerable to decay and may eventually require replacement crowns. Bridges typically last ten to fifteen years before needing replacement.
Which Option Suits Your Needs?
Your decision depends on several factors. If you want the most durable, bone-preserving option and can wait several months for completion, an implant is a good option. This option is best suited when you have sufficient bone density and healthy gums to support the implant.
A bridge serves you well if you need a quicker solution, prefer to avoid surgery, or have adjacent teeth that already need crowns. Some patients choose bridges when bone grafting would be necessary for an implant, but they want to avoid that additional procedure. Cost considerations and insurance coverage may also influence your decision.
Schedule Your Consultation at Naylor Family Dental and Implant Center
Choosing between a dental implant and a bridge requires a thorough evaluation of your oral health and personal preferences. Our team examines your bone structure, gum health, and the condition of surrounding teeth to recommend the best option. We explain each choice clearly, including the process, timeline, and costs involved.
Contact us to discuss whether a single dental implant or a dental bridge fits your situation. We’ll help you make an informed decision that supports your oral health for years to come.
