For a single missing tooth, a dental implant replaces the root and crown and leaves neighbouring teeth untouched, while a bridge uses those neighbours as anchors and is quicker and lower in upfront cost. An implant usually lasts longer and protects the bone beneath the gap; a bridge can be the better choice when the adjacent teeth already need crowns. The right answer depends on your gap, not on a rule.
What each one actually is
An implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone, fusing over a few months (osseointegration) before a crown is fixed on top. A standalone replacement — neighbouring teeth untouched. Our dental implants in Islington page covers the process.
A bridge replaces the tooth with a false tooth held by crowns cemented onto reduced neighbouring teeth. It relies entirely on those two anchor teeth's health. See our bridges in Islington page for the details.
The four-axis comparison
Bone: an implant loads the bone and slows resorption; a bridge sits above the gum while bone beneath quietly recedes.
Neighbouring teeth: a bridge damages healthy anchor teeth, but if they already need crowns, it solves two problems at once.
Time and surgery: a bridge is quicker (2-3 weeks, no surgery); an implant is staged over months and needs screening for smoking, diabetes, gum disease.
Longevity: a well-placed implant can last decades; a bridge typically lasts 10-15 years before needing replacement.
So which is better?
Healthy neighbours and good bone — implant usually wins long-term. Neighbours already needing crowns — bridge often the smarter choice. Not a surgical candidate — bridge or denture may be right. Long edentulous span — implant-supported solutions often pull ahead for chewing function. Our tooth replacement guide sets out every option.
What it costs at DWL
A single implant with crown: from £2,200, including the crown, with any bone grafting quoted in writing after assessment. Bridges are quoted in writing at consultation since cost depends heavily on span and material. 0% APR finance over 12 months via Tabeo, subject to status. Our guide to dental implant costs in London explains what the price covers.
How we decide with you
Implant placement is carried out by our implant dentist, Dr Rishil Patel; restorative planning sits with the wider team. Before either treatment, gum health, grinding habits, bone volume, and general health are all assessed.
Frequently asked questions
Is an implant always better than a bridge? No — depends on whether the neighbouring teeth are healthy or already need crowns. If several teeth are missing, see implant bridge versus single implants.
Why is an implant more expensive? Surgery, the titanium post, months of integration, and a crown — but it often lasts decades versus 10-15 years for a bridge.
Will a bridge damage my other teeth? Yes if they're healthy; less of a loss if they already need crowns.
How long does each take? Bridge: 2-3 weeks. Implant: staged over a few months.
What if I'm not suitable for an implant? A bridge or denture is often the honest recommendation instead.
Talk it through with us
Dental & Wellness London · 222 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 3AP. Call 020 8127 4567 or WhatsApp +44 7974 910222.
Reviewed by Dr Vishal Patel · BDS (Liverpool), MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry (Manchester) · GDC 103127. Last reviewed 5 June 2026.
