Dental Bridge vs. Implant: Which Is the Best Restorative Solution for the Gap in Your Smile

At Pioneer Dental Group, experienced dentist Behzad Binafard, DDS, and our dedicated team offer our patients the best in high-tech dental care. We understand that every patient has unique needs, and that's why we offer both dental implants and bridges as excellent restorative options here in our boutique-style practice in Norwalk, California.

With 25 years of history restoring smiles in our community, we're known as the go-to place for both bridges and implants. Read on to learn more about each.

What is a dental bridge?

A bridge fills in a gap by anchoring a custom restoration between two adjacent teeth. Bridges contain at least two crowns, one on each side of a replacement tooth (a pontic). The crowns fit onto the healthy teeth on either side of the gap.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a strong, biocompatible metal post that Dr. Binafard surgically places within your jaw. The implant functions as a replacement tooth root. A custom crown attaches to the implant, replacing your missing tooth.

Comparing the options

Both options offer stable, reliable tooth replacement, but one of them might be the better choice for you based on factors such as:

Lifespan

Bridges are durable, lasting up to 15 years. However, dental implants last longer. Some recent studies show that they're still viable four decades later (the crown may require replacement every decade or so).

Treatment time

We craft crowns and bridges right here in our own state-of-the-art dental lab, which means you can get your restoration quickly, in as little as two visits to our office.

While we craft your custom dental implant crowns onsite, the process takes longer than a bridge. Once Dr. Binafard places your dental implant, you'll have a healing period of several months before your crown can be placed.

This allows a process called osseointegration to take place. Bone cells grow onto and around the metal post, helping lock it in place.

Many patients wear a temporary crown during the osseointegration process. Then, you return to our practice for your permanent replacement tooth (custom crown).

Treatment complexity

Implants involve minor surgery and healing time. Bridges require less recovery, but they do require the removal of a small amount of enamel from the support teeth that hold your bridge in place.

Cost

A bridge is the less-expensive option. However, it's important to take other factors, like longevity, into account to consider the actual cost over many years or a lifetime.

Making your best choice

At Pioneer Dental Group, we understand that your best treatment depends on factors such as your oral health, budget, and how long you want the solution to last.

During your consultation, Dr. Binafard will walk you through both options and how they can fit your needs and goals. Then, you have a pressure-free opportunity to decide which works best for you.

We’re excited to help you explore both solutions in a comforting and supportive environment. Call Pioneer Dental Group at 562-684-6179 or schedule a consultation online anytime.