Why does a doctor prefer a bridge over an implant? You have probably heard of both dental bridges and implants, but it's not always clear why a doctor might recommend one over the other. A bridge uses nearby teeth for support, while an implant is placed directly into the jawbone. So, why would a doctor prefer a bridge over an implant?Â
In this blog, we'll explore the key reasons behind this recommendation and help you understand when a bridge might be the better option.
Here are the main reasons why a doctor prefers a bridge over an implant:
Implants need a strong jawbone to hold them in place. If a patient has lost bone due to gum disease or missing teeth, an implant might not be possible without extra procedures like a bone graft. A bridge can be a better option in these cases since it doesn't rely on bone strength.
Patients with certain medical conditions, like diabetes or autoimmune diseases, may heal slower or face a higher risk of infection after surgery. Since implants involve surgery, people with these conditions might be better off with a bridge, which doesn't require surgery.
Getting an implant can take several months because the implant needs time to heal before the crown is added. If a patient needs a quicker solution, a bridge can be completed in just a few dental visits.
Implants are usually more expensive than bridges due to the surgery and materials involved. A bridge might be the preferred choice for patients looking for a more affordable option.
If the teeth next to the gap need work, like crowns or fillings, a bridge might be a better solution. The bridge uses these nearby teeth for support so it can fix multiple issues at once.
Some patients may not want surgery or might prefer a faster solution. In these cases, a bridge can be a better choice since it doesn't require surgery and is quicker to complete.
One of the main reasons a dentist may choose a dental bridge over an implant is to avoid surgery. Here's why:
Dental implants is a surgical procedure where a titanium post is placed into the jawbone. On the other hand, a bridge doesn't require surgery. The dentist simply reshapes the neighboring teeth to support the bridge, making it a much less invasive option.
Since a bridge does not involve surgery, recovery is quicker. There's no need to wait for the jawbone to heal, which can take several months in the case of implants. With a bridge, patients can return to their normal routine sooner.
For patients with certain medical conditions, like diabetes or issues with blood clotting, surgery may pose a higher risk. A dental bridge is a safer option for these individuals because it avoids the complications that can arise from surgical procedures.
Surgery can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort as the area heals. By choosing a bridge, patients avoid the potential pain and complications that come with implant surgery. This makes bridges a more comfortable option for many people.
Implants can take months to complete due to the healing process, but a bridge can be completed in just a few visits. For patients looking for a quicker, non-surgical solution, bridges offer a faster way to restore their smile.
Feature | Dental Bridge | Dental Implant |
Surgical Requirement | A dental bridge requires no surgery and uses neighboring teeth for support. | A dental implant requires surgery to place a metal post into the jawbone for stability. |
Treatment Duration | The treatment for a dental bridge is quick and is usually completed in just a few visits. | The dental implant process takes longer, as it involves a healing period of several months after surgery. |
Cost | Dental bridges are more affordable upfront compared to implants. | Dental implants are more expensive due to surgical costs, materials, and the time involved in the process. |
Health Considerations | Dental bridges are suitable for patients with health issues, as they avoid the risks associated with surgery. | Dental implants may not be suitable for people with certain health conditions, as surgery can pose higher risks for complications. |
Impact on Neighboring Teeth | A dental bridge requires reshaping and alteration of adjacent teeth to provide support for the bridge. | A dental implant stands alone and does not affect the surrounding teeth, preserving their structure. |
Maintenance and Longevity | Dental bridges last 10 to 15 years, but they require regular maintenance and potential replacement over time. | Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care, requiring regular dental hygiene to maintain their health. |
The doctor’s preference for a bridge over an implant often depends on the unique needs and circumstances of each patient to ensure the best possible outcome for their dental health. Both bridge and dental implants have various benefits, and your dentist chooses the best option for you.Â
Are you ready to enhance your smile with effective dental solutions at Zircteeth? With clinics conveniently located in Boston, Manchester, and Malden, you can choose the location that works best for you. Don't wait any longer—schedule your consultation today and discover how we can help you achieve a healthier, more radiant smile!
A doctor might prefer a bridge for reasons such as a quicker treatment process, lower costs, the absence of surgery, and suitability for patients with specific health conditions.
While bridges are durable and can last 10–15 years with proper care, implants generally last a lifetime if maintained well.
 Most people can get a dental bridge, but a dentist will evaluate individual health conditions to ensure it’s the right choice, especially if there are concerns about the strength of neighboring teeth.
