If you’re missing one or more teeth, your dentist may recommend a dental bridge to restore your smile. But not all bridges are created equal. Today, patients in Southern California have a choice between traditional bridges—anchored to existing teeth—and implant-supported bridges, which are secured with dental implants.
At California Dental Group, we help patients understand the pros and cons of both options so they can make the best decision for their oral health, lifestyle, and long-term goals. If you’re unsure which type of dental bridge is right for you, here’s a detailed comparison to help guide your decision.
What Is a Traditional Dental Bridge?
A traditional bridge involves using the healthy teeth on either side of a gap—called abutment teeth—as anchors for an artificial tooth (or teeth) in the middle. These supporting teeth are reshaped and covered with crowns to hold the bridge in place.
Benefits of traditional bridges:
- Typically faster and less expensive than implant-supported options
- Usually completed in two visits over a few weeks
- Covered by most dental insurance plans
Things to consider:
- Requires reshaping healthy teeth, which may compromise their structure over time
- May need replacement after 5–15 years due to wear or changes in bite alignment
- Not ideal if the surrounding teeth are weak or decayed
Traditional bridges work well for patients who have healthy surrounding teeth and want a relatively quick, cost-effective solution for replacing missing teeth.
What Is an Implant-Supported Bridge?
An implant-supported bridge is anchored by dental implants instead of natural teeth. These implants are surgically placed into the jawbone to act as artificial tooth roots. Once healed, the bridge is attached to the implants, offering a strong, stable solution.
Benefits of implant-supported bridges:
- Do not require altering healthy teeth
- Stimulate the jawbone to prevent bone loss
- Offer excellent stability for chewing and speaking
- Can last decades with proper care
Things to consider:
- Requires oral surgery and a longer healing period (typically several months)
- Higher upfront cost (though lower replacement rate long-term)
- Not all patients are candidates—adequate bone density is necessary
For patients seeking a more permanent and natural-feeling solution, implant-supported bridges are often the preferred option.
How to Choose the Right Type of Bridge
The right type of dental bridge depends on a number of personal and clinical factors:
- Oral health: Are the neighboring teeth strong enough to support a traditional bridge?
- Bone structure: Do you have enough bone density for implants, or would grafting be needed?
- Budget and insurance: What is covered, and what can you reasonably invest in your dental care?
- Timeline: Are you seeking a quick fix or a long-term investment?
At California Dental Group, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, take digital scans, and review your medical history before recommending the best treatment plan. We’ll also walk you through both options—from timeline to pricing—so you can move forward with confidence.
Restoring Function and Confidence
Replacing missing teeth isn’t just about appearance—it’s about restoring the function of your bite, preventing further dental complications, and boosting your overall well-being. Whether you choose a traditional bridge or an implant-supported one, you’ll be improving your long-term oral health and quality of life.
To learn more about your bridge options and which is right for your smile, call California Dental Group at 800-407-0161 to schedule a consultation. We’re here to provide trusted, personalized dental care to patients across Southern California.
