I Am considering a dental implant versus a bridge...Opinions??

Implant if you have the cash. It saves the teeth on either side and looks better.

An implant is the longer lasting of the two choices, but you should consider some factors:

If the teeth on either side of the missing tooth are in good shape, you may not want to disturb them by removing tooth structure to support a bridge.

You bone tissue may or may not support an implant. Only a specialist can make this determination.

Missing teeth on the lower arch can result in bone loss - an implant may stop this.

Bridge may cost less initially, but over the long-term an implant will provide the greater value in longevity.

Be sure to select a dentist or specialist who has experience with implants. I've known of some general dentists who try implants with little or no specialized training.

Be sure to check the new type implants. Earlier ones (a few years ago) took about a year to fully build the bone and secure the implant. My dentist showed a new system where the implant is installed on a post of titanium and it is secure in one day! They are a bit expensive, but no more than the earlier ones. Of course, bridges are about half the cost but have to be cleaned between the bridge and it's possible it may not last if not taken good care of. I don't know the expected time for an implant to last, I guess forever as long as there is no bone problems. Ask lots of questions before deciding. Good luck.

Hi there.

I was a dental asst for years and have seen both procedures hundreds of times.

It really depends on your bone structure. If your denture thinks your bone will support the implant is is worth every penny. Aesthetically it looks better, maintenance is easier and you do not have to ruin the teeth the abutments (the part of the bridge that is secured to your healthy teeth) would be. When you crown or bridge you lose so much tooth....bridges force you to ruin healthy teeth to support the pontic.(fake tooth)

Implants are a wonderful marvel. As far as I know, and I am very well trained, there is NOT an implant that can be finished in a day. It is a long process if you want it done correctly.

Good luck and take care!

Dental implants would be much better if you can afford them. An in plant would only affect the tooth or teeth being replaced whereas a bridge would affect the tooth before and after the teeth or tooth that the bridge would be replacing. The tooth starting the bridge and ending the bridge would have to be ground down and capped to support the bridged portion.

IMPLANT IF YOU HAVE THE CASH. BRIDES SO YOU CAN CLEAN UNDER THEM BY FLOSSING. THE PROBLEMS WITH BRIDGES IS SOMETIMES AFTER LONG WEAR AND TEAR THEY SOMETIMES COME OFF AND DENTIST HAVE TO RECAP WITH CEMENT. ASK YOUR DENTIST.