Implant vs. Bridge: Which Treatment Is Right for You?

John P. Goodman, D.D.S., offers several options to replace missing teeth and restore function. Both dental implants and traditional bridges have their own advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to make the most appropriate choice for your oral health. When you come in for a consultation, Dr. Goodman can help you decide implant vs. bridge at our Kansas City, MO, practice. Both types of prosthetic can restore your smile and improve your overall oral health. However, a bridge will only replace the crown of your tooth, while an implant can replace the entire structure, including the tooth roots. This can provide additional benefits for the right candidates, but dental implants are not the most appropriate choice for every patient. Dr. Goodman will evaluate your oral health and budget to determine which type of restoration is appropriate for you. 

Illustration comparing dental implants and dental bridges

Placing Bridges and Dental Implants

A traditional bridge is comprised of several <a href="/dental-crown>crowns that are attached to one another. The crowns on each end of the restoration will be secured to the adjacent teeth, affixing the entire bridge in place. To place a bridge, Dr. Goodman will need to reshape those teeth. Using gentle techniques, he will trim off small amounts of enamel to create room for the restoration. He will then take impressions of your bite that our lab will use to design your restoration. 

With appropriate dental care, a dental implant can last a lifetime, making it a great investment in your smile.

If you choose a dental implant,  The recovery period typically requires three to six months for your jaw and the titanium post to fuse together. The implant surgery will be performed by an Oral Surgeon.  After your recovery, Dr. Goodman will attach your restoration directly to the implant.

The Health Benefits of Implants vs. Bridges

An implant will require a more time-consuming procedure than a dental bridge, however, implants can offer important health benefits. If you choose an implant, the adjacent teeth do not need to be modified, while traditional bridges require small amounts of enamel to be removed. 

Additionally, an implant will perform all the same functions as your natural tooth roots. This provides a stable foundation for your restoration, and it will also send regenerative signals to your jaw, which can prevent future bone recession. Implants can also reduce your risk for further tooth loss and protect your natural facial structure.

The Cost of Implants vs. Bridges

Although dental implants may have a higher upfront cost than a dental bridge, it may actually save you money in the long-term. With appropriate dental care, a dental implant can last a lifetime, making it a great investment in your smile. By comparison, you may need to replace a traditional bridge periodically.

Dr. Goodman wants to make quality care affordable for all of our patients. Our front office team will be happy to assist you in finding an appropriate financing solution.

Learn More about Your Restorative Options

To learn more about bridges and implants, or to find out which restorative option may be right for you, please contact our office to schedule an appointment.

John P. Goodman, DDS

John P. Goodman, DDS We Give Kansas City a Reason to Smile!

Dr. John Goodman has more than two decades of experience serving the community of Kansas City, MO. He offers a comprehensive range of services to address all types of dental problems, and he accepts CareCredit® financing to make treatment as accessible as possible. 

To request a consultation, please fill out our online form or call us at (816) 842-8585.

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"My experience with Dr. John Goodman DDS was outstanding. The entire staff was courteous and very accommodating. Dr. Goodman made me feel very comfortable but also finally gave me hope for having that "beautiful smile" that we (with not so good teeth) always wish for. I left feeling elated and excited for the first time about a dental appointment."

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