A dental implant replaces the tooth root with a small post in the jawbone and supports a crown on its own, without relying on neighboring teeth. A bridge anchors a replacement tooth to the teeth on either side. Implants help preserve bone and don't require reshaping nearby teeth; bridges are typically faster and may cost less upfront.
Replacing a missing tooth matters for more than your smile. Gaps can shift neighboring teeth, change your bite and make chewing harder. The two most common fixed options are dental implants and bridges. Here's how they compare.
How each option works
Dental implant: a small titanium post is placed in the jawbone where the root used to be. After it heals and bonds with the bone, a custom crown is attached. It stands on its own.
Bridge: the teeth on either side of the gap are shaped and crowned, and a replacement tooth is attached between them.
Side-by-side
- Neighboring teeth: implants leave them untouched; bridges require reshaping them for crowns.
- Jawbone: implants help preserve bone where the tooth was lost; bridges don't stimulate the bone under the gap.
- Timeline: bridges are usually completed in a few weeks; implants take a few months to heal before the final crown.
- Upfront cost: bridges often cost less initially; implants are an investment that can last for many years with good care.
- Cleaning: implants are brushed and flossed like natural teeth; bridges need special flossing under the replacement tooth.
Who's a good candidate for implants?
Most healthy adults with missing teeth can be candidates. We'll review your health history, gum health and bone levels. If bone is limited, there may still be options.
Making it affordable
We'll give you a written estimate before treatment and can split costs into monthly payments with Cherry and CareCredit.
Dr. Chris Booker places implants right here in our Cary office, and he or Dr. Goodall restores them, so you can complete your care in one familiar place.
Frequently asked questions
Do implants hurt?
Implant placement is done with local anesthesia, and most patients report less discomfort than they expected. We'll talk through comfort options in advance.
How long do dental implants last?
With good home care and regular checkups, implants can last for many years.
Dental Implants at Goodall Family Dentistry
Learn about dental implantsReady to schedule?
Book online anytime, or call our front desk — we’re happy to answer questions about scheduling, insurance or your visit.
This article is for general education and isn't a substitute for an exam or personal medical advice.
