The question on many patients' minds
When a tooth is missing, patients face an important decision: dental implant or dental bridge? Both types of restoration have their place – the right choice depends on your individual situation. In this article, we compare both options honestly and in plain language. You will find a detailed overview of all the options in our guide Closing a tooth gap.
Dental implant: the more modern solution
A dental implant replaces the missing tooth from the root up. An artificial tooth root made of titanium is anchored in the jawbone and, once it has healed in, carries a crown.
Advantages:
- Neighbouring teeth remain completely untouched
- Prevents bone loss at the site of the gap
- Feels like a natural tooth
- Long-lasting with good care
Points to consider:
- Surgical procedure required
- Healing period of 3 to 6 months
- Higher co-payment than for a bridge
- Sufficient bone required
Dental bridge: the classic alternative
A dental bridge is attached to the neighbouring teeth. To do this, these teeth must be ground down and crowned so that they can serve as bridge abutments.
Advantages:
- No surgical procedure
- Quicker restoration (usually 2 to 4 weeks)
- Partly covered by statutory health insurance
- Well-established procedure
Points to consider:
- Healthy neighbouring teeth must be ground down
- Bone loss under the bridge is not prevented
- Cleaning under the pontic is more laborious
Our recommendation
As a rule, at our practice we prefer solutions that preserve as much healthy tooth substance as possible. If the neighbouring teeth are healthy, an implant is often the more sustainable choice. If the neighbouring teeth already have crowns or if surgery is not wanted, a bridge may be the better option.
We will be happy to advise you personally – make an appointment for an individual assessment: 0211 – 497 67 69 or book online.
