Implant vs traditional bridge
| Dental implant | Tooth-supported bridge | |
|---|---|---|
| Neighbouring teeth | Left untouched | Filed down for crowns |
| Protects jawbone | Yes | No, bone shrinks under the gap |
| Treatment time | 3–6 months | 2–3 weeks |
| Typical lifespan | Implant often lifelong; crown 10–15 years | 10–15 years |
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Surgery | Minor surgery | None |
Our summary
An implant is usually the better long-term choice if the neighbouring teeth are healthy. A bridge can make sense if the neighbouring teeth already need crowns, or if surgery is not possible.