Patient Guide · Tooth Replacement
Dental Implant vs. Bridge: Which Is Better for a Missing Tooth?
When you lose a tooth, the two most common fixed replacements are a dental implant and a dental bridge. Both can look natural. They differ in how they affect your other teeth, how long they last and what they cost over time.
Written by the Wilmington Dental & Implants clinical team · formerly Dr. Herbert T. Casalena’s office
Updated November 1, 2026 · 4 min read
Key takeaways
- A bridge requires shaping the neighboring teeth; an implant leaves them untouched.
- Implants help preserve the jawbone and often last longer.
- Bridges usually cost less up front; exact fees come in writing after an exam.
How each works
- Implant: a titanium post replaces the root and supports a crown. It stands on its own.
- Bridge: the teeth on either side are shaped for crowns, which hold a replacement tooth between them.
Neighboring teeth
A bridge requires removing enamel from the teeth next to the gap, even if they are healthy. An implant leaves them untouched. If those teeth already need crowns, a bridge can be a sensible choice.
Bone and lifespan
An implant helps preserve the jawbone where the tooth was lost. Bridges don’t replace the root, so bone can shrink under the replacement tooth over time. With good care, implants can last decades; bridges often need replacing after a number of years.
Cost
A bridge often costs less up front. Over a lifetime, an implant may cost less if it avoids future bridge replacements. A single implant with crown typically ranges from about $3,500 to $6,000 in our area; our current standard ceramic crown fee is $2,043 per unit (a three-unit bridge involves three units). Exact fees come in writing after an exam. W Smile Club members save 30%.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Is an implant better than a bridge?+
Often, for a single missing tooth with healthy neighbors, yes. But bridges remain a good option in some cases. We'll explain both honestly.
Which is faster?+
A bridge is usually finished in a few weeks. An implant takes a few months to heal before the final crown.
Does insurance cover implants or bridges?+
Many plans cover bridges, and more plans now contribute toward implants. We check your benefits free.
Can I replace an old bridge with implants?+
Often, yes. If an older bridge is failing, implants may be the next step. Records from Dr. Casalena's era are still on site.
Does an implant hurt more than a bridge?+
Both are done comfortably with local anesthesia. Implant placement may cause a few days of mild soreness.
Related Treatments
Single Tooth Implants in Wilmington, DE
Replace one tooth without touching the others.
Learn more →Dental Implants in Wilmington, DE
Permanent tooth replacement with clear, written pricing.
Learn more →How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Wilmington, DE?
2026 guide to implant pricing, insurance and financing.
Learn more →Dental Insurance Accepted
We accept most dental PPO plans, verify your benefits for free and file your claims. Medicaid not accepted.
Visit Us in Wilmington
Wilmington Dental & Implants
2300 Pennsylvania Ave, Suite 6AB (6th floor)
Wilmington, DE 19806
Formerly Herbert T. Casalena, DDS, P.A. Near Trolley Square. Patient records remain on site.
| Monday – Friday | 8 AM – 5 PM |
| Saturday – Sunday | Closed |
Most PPO plans accepted · Medicaid not accepted
Ready when you are.
Call our Wilmington office at 302-984-3300 or request a time online. Cleanings within 2 weeks, guaranteed. Same-day emergency appointments. Free insurance check.
