The above images show a missing tooth and it's replacement with an implant. There are four main reasons for choosing an implant over a bridge for tooth replacement.

As explained in the FAQ, if bone is not slightly stressed by a tooth, it will resorb over time. A bridge provides a "false tooth" which only "floats" above the gum tissue, therefore the bone is not being used. An implant is actually placed into the bone and acts like a natural tooth and strengthens the supporting bone.

Studies have shown that over a 10 year period, approximately 20% of bridges fail and need to be replaced. The number one reason for this is due to decay of teeth supporting the bridge. An implant tooth is not able to develop decay, so the number one reason for failure is eliminated.

To create a span for a bridge, two or more teeth require "cutting down", so the bridge can be fitted over them. Studies show that up to 30% of these teeth that are "cut down" will require root canal therapy. When an implant is placed, no other teeth are disturbed since the implant is self-supporting.

The final reason is since a bridge is all one piece, it can't be flossed like natural teeth. The floss has to be threaded underneath the false tooth in order to clean the supporting teeth. This usually takes some extra effort and for this reason, most people don't clean their bridge(s) as often as they should. The bone loss from lack of function in the missing tooth area and the difficulty of cleaning under the bridge increases the possibility of developing decay and periodontal disease leading to failure of the bridge. Since an implant is more like a natural tooth, it can be cleaned with as much ease as a natural tooth.

A very important factor in implants is proper placement. They should be inserted in the most ideal site for a natural tooth to be able to handle the load of chewing and biting. The length and width of the implant also needs to be taken into consideration with the factors of the tooth it's replacing and the bone type involved.