Pros and Cons of Single Tooth Implants vs. Bridges

May 7, 2025

When you’re missing a tooth, two of the most common solutions your dentist might recommend are a single tooth dental implant or a dental bridge. Both options can restore your smile and improve your oral function — but they work in different ways and come with unique advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of single tooth implants vs. bridges to help you make an informed decision about which is right for you.

What’s the Difference?

Before we dive into the pros and cons, let’s quickly explain how these two treatments work:

Single Tooth Implant: A dental implant replaces the entire missing tooth — both the root and the crown. A titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone, and once it heals, a custom crown is attached on top.

Dental Bridge: A dental bridge replaces the missing tooth by anchoring a false tooth (pontic) to the adjacent natural teeth. The two neighboring teeth are prepared (shaved down) to hold crowns, which support the pontic in between.

Pros of Single Tooth Implants

Preserves Healthy Teeth: Implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth for support, meaning your healthy neighboring teeth remain untouched.

Prevents Bone Loss: By stimulating the jawbone, implants prevent bone shrinkage (resorption) that can happen after losing a tooth.

Long-Lasting Solution: With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, while bridges may need replacement after 10–15 years.

Natural Look and Feel: Implants closely mimic natural teeth in both appearance and function, providing excellent stability when chewing or speaking.

Cons of Single Tooth Implants

Higher Initial Cost: Implants typically have a higher upfront cost compared to bridges, although they often pay off over time due to longevity.

Surgical Procedure Required: Getting an implant involves minor surgery and several months of healing before the final crown is placed.

Longer Treatment Timeline: While a bridge can often be completed in a few weeks, implants may take several months from start to finish.

Pros of Dental Bridges

Quicker Process: A dental bridge usually takes just 2–3 visits over a few weeks to complete — no surgery or healing time required.

Lower Initial Cost: Bridges generally cost less upfront than implants, making them a more budget-friendly option for some patients.

Effective for Multiple Missing Teeth: Bridges can replace more than one tooth when multiple adjacent teeth are missing, using fewer implants or anchoring to natural teeth.

Cons of Dental Bridges

Affects Healthy Teeth: To place a bridge, the neighboring teeth must be filed down for crowns, permanently altering otherwise healthy teeth.

Does Not Prevent Bone Loss: Unlike implants, bridges only replace the visible part of the tooth, so the jawbone under the missing tooth can still shrink over time.

Shorter Lifespan: Bridges typically last 10–15 years, depending on care, and may need to be replaced or repaired.

Harder to Clean: Cleaning under a bridge requires special flossing techniques to prevent plaque buildup and gum issues.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing between a dental implant and a bridge depends on several factors, including:

Your oral health and bone density

The condition of your surrounding teeth

Your budget and timeline

Your personal preferences regarding treatment and maintenance

At Feeding Hills Dental Care, we’re here to help you explore your options. We’ll examine your smile, discuss your goals, and recommend the best treatment plan to restore your confidence and function.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re missing a tooth and wondering whether a single tooth implant or a dental bridge is right for you, schedule a consultation with our experienced dental team today. We’ll guide you through the process and help you make the best decision for your smile. Contact us now — we can’t wait to help you smile again!