Bridges vs. Implants: Which is Right for You?

Losing a tooth is more than a cosmetic concern; it can affect your confidence, the way you eat, your speech, and even your long-term oral health. At Park Slope Dental Arts, we understand how overwhelming the decision can feel when choosing the best way to replace missing teeth. Two of the most common solutions are dental bridges and dental implants, and while both restore your smile, they work very differently.

Our Brooklyn team is here to guide you through the process with compassion and expertise. As Dr. Lee often says, “Every smile has a story, and our job is to make sure yours continues with confidence and comfort.”

Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters

Leaving a gap in your smile can create more issues than many patients realize. Beyond appearance, missing teeth can:

• Cause surrounding teeth to shift out of alignment
• Make chewing and speaking more difficult
• Lead to jawbone loss over time (if the root is not replaced)
• Increase the risk of gum disease and further tooth loss
• Lower self-confidence and affect social interactions

“Our patients in Park Slope often tell us they had no idea how much one missing tooth could impact their daily life until it happened. Replacing teeth is about restoring health and happiness, not just aesthetics,” shares Dr. Lee.

What Are Dental Bridges?

How They Work

A dental bridge literally “bridges” the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth (called a pontic) held in place by crowns on your healthy teeth on either side of the space. These neighboring teeth, known as abutment teeth, are reshaped and covered with crowns that support the bridge.

Bridges are a tried-and-true option that have been used for decades in dentistry and can restore both the function and appearance of your smile without surgery. They are fixed in place, unlike removable partial dentures, meaning they feel more stable and natural.

What They Fix

Dental bridges are an excellent solution for:

• Replacing one or more teeth in a row
• Restoring your ability to chew comfortably
• Improving speech that may be affected by missing teeth
• Preventing the shifting of your nearby teeth into the gap
• Enhancing the appearance of your smile

Dental Bridges Process

The process of getting a bridge is typically completed in just two visits:

1. Tooth Preparation – The abutment teeth on either side of your gap are reshaped to fit crowns. This ensures stability for your bridge.
2. Impressions – Precise molds are taken and sent to a dental lab to create your custom bridge.
3. Temporary Bridge – While your permanent bridge is being made, you’ll wear a temporary one to protect your teeth and gums.
4. Placement – At the final appointment, the bridge is carefully fitted, adjusted, and bonded into place.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Faster and less invasive than implants (no surgery required)
• Typically, more affordable upfront
• Provides immediate improvement in appearance and function
• Usually completed in just a few weeks

Cons:

• Requires reshaping of healthy neighboring teeth, which are permanently altered
• Does not prevent jawbone loss because the tooth root is not replaced
• May need to be replaced or adjusted every 10–15 years

What Are Dental Implants?

How They Work

Dental implants are widely considered the “gold standard” for tooth replacement. An implant is a small titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root, surgically placed into your jawbone. Over the course of a few months, the implant fuses with your natural bone through a process called osseointegration. Once healed, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, completing the restoration.

Because they replace the root as well as the crown of a tooth, implants not only restore your smile’s appearance and function but also preserve your bone health, preventing the sunken facial appearance that often comes with long-term tooth loss.

What They Fix

Dental implants can be used in a variety of situations:

• Replacing a single missing tooth with an implant and crown
• Replacing multiple missing teeth with an implant-supported bridge
• Restoring full arches of missing teeth with implant-supported dentures (All-on-4® and similar solutions)

Dental Implants Process

The implant process requires more time than a bridge but offers long-term benefits:

1. Consultation & Imaging – A thorough evaluation with digital X-rays or 3D imaging to assess your bone health and plan placement.
2. Implant Surgery – A titanium post is surgically inserted into your jawbone.
3. Healing & Integration – The implant integrates with your bone over 3–6 months, providing a strong foundation.
4. Abutment Placement – A small connector piece is attached to your implant.
5. Final Restoration – A custom crown, bridge, or denture is secured, completing your natural-looking smile.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Prevents bone loss by replacing the tooth root
• Feels, looks, and functions like a natural tooth
• Does not rely on or alter neighboring teeth
• Can last 20+ years or even a lifetime with proper care

Cons:

• Higher upfront investment compared to bridges
• Requires surgery and a healing period
• Not suitable for all patients without adequate bone density (may require bone grafting)

How to Choose: Key Considerations

Budget

Bridges are typically more affordable initially, making them accessible to many patients. However, implants often provide better long-term value due to their durability and protection of bone health.

Bone Density

Implants require a certain level of jawbone density. If bone loss has already occurred, bone grafting may be necessary. Bridges do not depend on bone health, making them an option when implants aren’t feasible.

Long-Term Goals

If you’re seeking a solution that can last decades and help preserve your oral health, implants may be the best option. If you want a faster, less invasive solution without surgery, a bridge might be right for you.

Dr. Lee explains: “Choosing between a bridge and an implant isn’t about which is ‘better,’ but which is better for you. We look at your health, your goals, and your lifestyle before recommending a solution.”

Our Expert Guidance at Park Slope Dental Arts

At our Brooklyn practice, we don’t just place restorations; we listen to your story, understand your concerns, and create a plan tailored to you. From the first consultation to your final smile, our compassionate team makes sure you feel informed, comfortable, and cared for every step of the way.

• Advanced technology, like digital imaging, for precise planning
• A team trained in both restorative and implant dentistry
• Personalized treatment plans with your goals in mind

“We believe that replacing a tooth isn’t just about filling a gap; it’s about restoring your ability to smile, laugh, and eat without worry,” says Dr. Lee.

Insurance and Payment Options

We know finances are an important part of your decision. At Park Slope Dental Arts, we accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible payment options to make treatment accessible. Our team will review your benefits with you so there are no surprises.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re weighing the decision of dental bridges vs. implants, you don’t have to decide alone. At Park Slope Dental Arts, we combine expertise with compassion to help you make the best choice for your health and your smile. Call us today or schedule online to take the first step toward your restored confidence.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.