Medically reviewed by Gordana Čižmek, dr. dent. med., spec. · Last updated: July 2026
Most people face tooth loss at some point in their lives, and with it comes an important decision: a dental bridge or a dental implant? Both options have their strengths, and choosing well means weighing up several factors. Here is what to consider before you decide.
Quick takeaways
- Bridge: more affordable and quicker to place, with no surgery — but the healthy teeth on either side must be filed down to hold it.
- Implant: stands on its own, helps preserve the jawbone and can last for decades with good care.
- Lifespan: bridges typically last 10–15 years; implants can last a lifetime.
- Cost at OrthoDental: implants (Neodent) from €1,500; bridges from €500.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth held in place on either side by dental crowns. These crowns are fitted over the surrounding healthy teeth and anchor the bridge securely.
Advantages and disadvantages of a dental bridge
One of the main advantages of a dental bridge is its affordability. Bridges are usually cheaper than implants, which makes them appealing if you are working to a budget. Fitting a bridge is also generally less involved than placing an implant, so treatment can be more convenient.
There are trade-offs, though. The most important drawback is that the healthy teeth on either side must be prepared and crowned to support the bridge. This means removing some enamel from otherwise sound teeth. A bridge also does not offer the same long-term stability as an implant.
What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are considered one of the best options for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to mimic a natural tooth: a titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, an abutment is connected to it, and a custom-made dental crown is fitted on top to match your natural teeth as closely as possible.
The biggest advantage of an implant is that, with proper care, it can replace a missing tooth for many years. Once the post has integrated with the jawbone, it provides a solid foundation for the crown. Implants feel much like natural teeth and let you chew and speak with confidence, while also looking natural. Importantly, implants help to preserve the jawbone, slowing the bone loss that follows tooth loss and helping to maintain your facial structure.
Source: NHS — Dental implants.
Appearance and functionality
Placing an implant involves minor surgery, so recovery can take a little longer than with a bridge. An implant tends to look even more natural than a bridge, where the crowns on the neighbouring teeth may be visible. With either option, the aim is to match the colour of your other teeth so your smile stays natural.
Factors to consider when choosing
When choosing between a bridge and an implant, several factors are worth weighing up:
- Oral health: implants need enough bone to support the post, so a procedure such as bone grafting may be needed if you have lost bone.
- Lifespan: bridges usually last about 10 to 15 years, whereas implants can last a lifetime with good care.
- Aesthetics: implants look very close to real teeth; with a bridge, the crowns on the neighbouring teeth can be partly visible.
- Cost: bridges are usually cheaper up front but may need replacing over time. Implants cost more initially, but their longevity and function can outweigh the higher starting price.
- Maintenance: implants are cared for just like natural teeth — brushing, flossing and regular check-ups. A bridge needs extra care to keep the area beneath it clean and free of plaque.
The impact on existing teeth
A bridge relies on the surrounding teeth for support, which means filing them down and, in the process, removing healthy tooth structure that can weaken them over time. An implant, by contrast, is a stand-alone artificial root placed directly into the jawbone to support the replacement tooth.
Because dental implants do not rest on the neighbouring teeth, they have far less impact on the rest of your smile. Some minor adjustment may still be needed so the crown aligns correctly with your natural teeth.
Dental bridge
- Lower cost than an implant
- Can be completed in less time
- No surgery required
- Can replace several missing teeth at once
- Can be replaced if damaged
Dental implant
- Long-lasting and durable
- Independent — does not affect neighbouring teeth
- Helps preserve bone and reduce bone loss
- Looks and feels like a natural tooth
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Comfortable for chewing and speaking
The price
At OrthoDental, Neodent implants start at €1,500. This starting price covers the implant, the initial procedure, the surgical placement, local anaesthesia and the final post-treatment check-up, but it does not include any extra procedures that more complex cases may require. Dental bridges start at €500.
What to choose?
Choosing between a bridge and an implant is not a decision to rush. Sound advice from an experienced dentist matters, and our team at OrthoDental is here to help. We take your oral health, budget, aesthetic goals and long-term needs into account so you can make an informed choice. Once you understand the pros and cons of each, it becomes much easier to see which suits you.
Your smile is a valuable asset, and investing in the right tooth-replacement option restores both your confidence and your long-term oral health.
Frequently asked questions
Neither is universally better — it depends on your situation. An implant lasts longer, protects the jawbone and leaves the neighbouring teeth untouched, while a bridge is more affordable and quicker to place. The right choice depends on your oral health, budget and priorities.
A dental bridge typically lasts about 10 to 15 years, while a well-cared-for implant can last a lifetime.
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during placement. Mild soreness afterwards is normal and usually settles within a few days.
At OrthoDental, Neodent implants start at €1,500 and dental bridges start at €500. The final cost depends on your individual case.
Ready to restore your smile?
Book a first examination and we will help you choose the right solution for your teeth and your budget.
Avtor prispevka
Gordana Čižmek
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