Over time, older dental bridges can lose their fit, stability, or natural look. You might notice small gaps, a bit of gum recession, or a smile that doesn’t blend the way it used to. What starts as a minor change can turn into an everyday annoyance.
It’s not just about teeth, it’s about confidence. Many people begin hiding their smiles in photos or feel a little unsure at work or in social settings. If your bridge isn’t doing its job anymore, it’s worth exploring your next step. For many patients, that next step is a dental implant. Unlike a bridge, an implant replaces the tooth root itself, helping protect nearby teeth, maintain bone health, and deliver a result that looks and feels natural.
Dr. Javadi focuses on advanced implant dentistry and has helped many patients transition from aging bridges to stable, long-lasting implants. With implants, you gain more than a replacement, you get lasting strength, comfort, and renewed confidence.
Understanding Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching a false tooth to the adjacent natural teeth (called abutment teeth). The abutment teeth are usually reshaped and fitted with crowns, which then support the pontic (also known as an artificial tooth) between them.
How bridges work
- The dentist reshapes the teeth next to the gap.
- Custom crowns are placed on these teeth.
- A pontic is fused between the crowns to bridge the space.
Longevity and common issues
- Typical lifespan: Often 5–15 years with good care, though this varies.
- Tooth preparation: Abutment teeth must be filed down, permanently altering otherwise healthy teeth.
- Decay risk: The margins where crowns meet natural teeth can trap plaque, increasing the chance of decay or the need for root canal treatment.
- Gum and bone changes: Because the pontic doesn’t stimulate the underlying jawbone, the bone in that area can slowly shrink, sometimes creating a visible dip beneath the bridge.
- Maintenance: Cleaning under a bridge requires floss threaders or water flossers to keep the area healthy.
What Are Dental Implants?
A dental implant replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a titanium post directly into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement root. An abutment is then attached to the implant, and a custom crown is placed on top. This design restores the function, look, and stability of a natural tooth.
Longevity and benefits
- Typical lifespan: With good care, implants can last decades, often a lifetime.
- Bone preservation: The implant stimulates the jawbone, preventing bone loss that can occur under a bridge.
- No impact on adjacent teeth: Implants don’t require filing down healthy neighboring teeth.
- Easier care: You can brush and floss implants just like natural teeth.
Reasons to Choose Dental Implants Over Bridges
Some of the reasons Dr. Javadi recommends choosing dental implants over bridges include:
Long-Term Durability & Stability
As it gets integrated with your jawbone, it provides a sturdy foundation. With routine care, many implants can last for decades. By contrast, bridges rely on the health of the supporting teeth and dental cement. If an abutment tooth develops decay or fractures, the entire bridge may need replacement.
Jawbone & Overall Oral Health
Implants transmit chewing forces into the bone, helping maintain bone density and facial structure. Also, they don’t require reshaping the adjacent teeth. Preserving natural enamel reduces future dental work and sensitivity. A well-sealed implant crown is easier to clean, lowering risks associated with trapped plaque.
Aesthetics & Confidence
Implant crowns are custom-milled and color-matched, often delivering a more seamless appearance, especially as gum contours remain more stable over time. Because implants help support the tissue and underlying bone, there will be less likely a sunken area where the tooth is missing.
Easier Maintenance
Dental implants are easier to maintain. You can brush and floss normally around an implant crown; interdental brushes can help where needed. On the other hand, bridges require threaders or water flossers to clean. Implants simplify daily hygiene for many patients.
Considerations Before Making the Switch
Replacing an old bridge with implants is a highly personalized decision. Some of the things we, at Orchid Periodontics & Dental Implants, recommend to our patients before making the switch include:
- Candidacy & health: Healthy gums and adequate bone are important. If bone has resorbed beneath your bridge, bone grafting or a sinus lift may be recommended to create a stable foundation.
- Number of missing teeth: For several adjacent missing teeth, Dr. Javadi suggests an implant-supported bridge, where fewer implants support multiple teeth, for a balanced, cost-effective plan.
- Timeline & procedure:
- Consultation, exam, and 3D imaging
- Treatment planning (including grafting, if needed)
- Implant placement (often under local anesthesia with optional sedation)
- Healing and osseointegration (typically several months)
- Abutment and crown placement
- Recovery: Most patients experience mild post-procedure soreness for a few days, manageable with over-the-counter pain relief. You will get specific aftercare instructions after your appointment.
- Cost: Implants usually have a higher upfront investment, but their longevity and reduced need for retreatment can make them cost-effective over time.
- Habits & medical conditions: Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or poor oral hygiene can affect healing. Dr. Javadi will review your medical history to optimize outcomes.
- Current bridge condition: If an abutment tooth under your old bridge has decay or damage, an implant may prevent future complications by replacing the missing root rather than relying on compromised teeth.
Conclusion
Dental bridges have their place, especially as a timely solution after a tooth is lost. But if your bridge is aging, difficult to clean, or failing, dental implants can provide a stable, natural-looking, and health-forward alternative. They help preserve jawbone, protect neighboring teeth, and simplify daily care. The best choice depends on your oral health, goals, and budget, so a personalized evaluation is essential.
Ready to Explore Whether Implant Dentistry is Right for You?
If you want an expert opinion on replacement of older bridges, then consult with Dr. Ellie Javadi at Orchid Periodontics & Dental Implants. She can provide expert guidance and advice on when to choose implants.
To schedule an appointment, call (425) 775-2002.
