Is a bridge or an implant better for a missing tooth?
Reviewed by Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist). Last reviewed November 3, 2026.
Status: Approved
Short answer: Neither is better for everyone. A bridge attaches artificial teeth to the teeth next to the gap, which usually means reshaping those teeth. An implant is anchored in the jawbone and doesn't rely on neighboring teeth, but it takes surgery and healing time. The right choice depends on your health, your bone and the teeth around the gap.
How each one works
- Bridge. The ADA describes a bridge, sometimes called a fixed partial denture, as artificial teeth attached to the surrounding teeth for support. A fixed bridge can only be removed by a dentist.
- Implant. A post placed in the jawbone that the bone grows around, then topped with a crown. Implants can also support a bridge when several teeth are missing.
Comparing them
| Bridge | Implant | |
|---|---|---|
| Neighboring teeth | Used for support, usually reshaped | Left alone |
| Surgery | No | Yes |
| Time to finish | Usually shorter | Longer, to allow bone healing |
| Main things that affect success | Health of the supporting teeth | Bone, overall health, smoking, cleaning |
The ADA notes that a bridge's success depends on its foundation, so keeping the remaining teeth healthy is very important. The FDA notes that smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and untreated gum disease can affect implant success.
Other options
A removable partial denture is another way to replace missing teeth. Your dentist can explain all three.
At Indy Smile Group
All three of our offices do crowns and bridges and place and restore dental implants in-house, and your dentist will go over the options for your situation at your exam. Coverage depends on your plan. We check your benefits and give you a written estimate before any treatment, including emergency treatment. See our dental implant pages for Fishers, Carmel and North Indy.
Next step
Ready to talk it through with a dentist? Book online or call the office closest to you.
- Fishers – Smile Dentistry: Book online · (317) 570-5480
- Carmel – Simply Smile Dentistry: Book online · (317) 564-8490
- North Indy – Simply Smile Dentistry: Book online · (317) 672-7511
Frequently asked questions
Does a bridge damage neighboring teeth?
Bridges usually require reshaping the supporting teeth so the crowns fit. That's one reason some people consider implants.
Which lasts longer, a bridge or an implant?
It depends on the person, their health and how well they clean. Your dentist can talk through your situation.
Can I get an implant if I've lost bone?
Sometimes extra steps are needed. An exam and imaging will show what's possible.
Sources
- ADA MouthHealthy – Bridges
- ADA MouthHealthy – Implants
- FDA – Dental Implants: What You Should Know
- ADA MouthHealthy – Dentures
Last reviewed: November 3, 2026
Reviewed by: Dr. Samuel Bacon, DDS (dentist)