Why Choose a Single Implant Over a Bridge?

You might not realize how much impact a single missing tooth can have. Beyond affecting your bite and oral health, it can influence how you speak, how you feel about your smile, and even how other teeth function. Over time, that small gap can cause neighboring teeth to shift, creating bite issues and increasing the risk of future dental problems.

Two common options for restoring a missing tooth are bridges and implants. While both can fill the space, only one does so without compromising the surrounding teeth. If you're thinking about getting a single dental implant in Norfolk, VA, here’s why it’s often the more conservative and lasting choice.

How Implants and Bridges Work

Both implants and bridges are designed to replace a missing tooth. But the way they do it and how they impact surrounding teeth sets them apart.

Dental Bridge: Quick but Invasive to Neighboring Teeth

A bridge anchors a false tooth to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These anchor teeth are reshaped and capped with crowns supporting the artificial tooth in the middle. While this offers a quick fix, it requires grinding down healthy teeth, even if they’ve never had a filling. That part can’t be reversed.

Bridges may need to be replaced over time. The entire unit can fail if the supporting teeth weaken or decay under the crowns. Regular maintenance and cleanings are important, but flossing around a bridge can be tricky, making it harder to keep the area clean.

Single Dental Implant: One Tooth, Fully Supported

A single dental implant replaces the entire missing tooth structure—from root to crown—without touching nearby teeth. A small titanium post is placed into the jawbone, and once it heals, a custom crown is attached on top.

Because the implant stands alone, your adjacent teeth stay untouched and healthy. It functions just like a natural tooth, so you can chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Daily brushing and flossing are simple, and the implant doesn’t decay.

Most implants last decades with proper care, making them a durable and predictable option for tooth replacement.

Bone Health Matters, Too

One major difference between the two is how they affect the jawbone. Once a tooth is lost, the bone beneath it begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. A bridge sits above the gumline and doesn’t address this.

An implant, on the other hand, stimulates the bone just like a natural root would. This helps maintain your facial shape and keeps your bite aligned. Preventing bone loss now can save you from needing more complex treatments later.

Why Many Patients Choose Implants Over Bridges

Most patients prefer implants for the long-term benefits, even if they take a little more time to complete. With no need to modify healthy teeth and better support for bone health, implants offer a modern solution that feels closer to a natural tooth.

A single dental implant may be the right fit if you’re active, want to eat freely, or want a low-maintenance solution.

Thinking About Replacing a Missing Tooth With a Single Dental Implant in Norfolk, VA?

Replacing a missing tooth is more than just filling a space; it’s about protecting your long-term oral health and maintaining your comfort and confidence. Whether you’re leaning toward a bridge or considering a single dental implant, it’s important to choose a solution that works with your lifestyle and supports the rest of your smile.

At Bonnie & Simone, we take the time to evaluate your needs and provide care that fits your goals. A single, well-placed implant can restore balance, stability, and peace of mind—all without impacting neighboring teeth. We’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact us today!