Losing a tooth is not only a cosmetic issue. If the space is left empty, neighbouring teeth tilt into it, the opposing tooth over-erupts and the jawbone slowly shrinks. Replacing the tooth is a health decision. The two main fixed options are a bridge and an implant.
The fixed bridge
A false tooth held between two crowns placed on the neighbouring teeth, which must be prepared.
- Pros: quick (a few weeks), no surgery, sensible if neighbours need crowns anyway.
- Cons: prepares possibly healthy teeth, needs special cleaning tools, does not stop bone loss.
The implant
A dental implant is a small post placed in the jawbone as a root, topped with a crown after it fuses with the bone.
- Pros: leaves neighbours untouched, preserves bone, cleaned like a natural tooth, feels natural.
- Cons: a minor surgical procedure, several months of healing, needs enough bone.
Comparison
| Criterion | Bridge | Implant |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment time | Weeks | Several months |
| Surgery | No | Yes, minor |
| Neighbouring teeth | Prepared | Untouched |
| Bone | Continues to shrink | Preserved |
| Cleaning | Special tools | Like a natural tooth |
When a bridge makes sense
When the neighbouring teeth already have large fillings, when bone is insufficient and the patient prefers not to rebuild it, or when surgery is not advisable.
When an implant is better
When the neighbours are healthy, several teeth in a row are missing, long-term bone preservation is a priority, or the last molar is missing with nothing behind it to support a bridge.
We assess your bone and neighbouring teeth on X-ray and present both options with their costs openly. See also crowns and bridges.
Book a consultation with Dr. Lamia Abu Ghazaleh in Riyadh and get a clear treatment plan.
This article is for general information and does not replace a dental examination.