Both bridges and implants replace missing teeth permanently, but they work differently. A bridge relies on adjacent teeth for support and can be completed in about two appointments. An implant replaces the tooth root with a titanium post, preserving the jawbone and not affecting neighboring teeth — but it requires several months of healing and multiple appointments.

Dr. White reviews both options with you based on the location of the missing tooth, the health of surrounding teeth, bone density, your timeline, and budget. Cedar Pearl Dental handles both procedures in-house, so you never need a referral regardless of which path you choose.

With proper care, a dental bridge typically lasts 10 to 15 years — and often longer. The most important factors are good oral hygiene (especially cleaning under the bridge with floss threaders or a water flosser), avoiding hard or sticky foods, and attending regular checkups so Dr. White can monitor the fit and condition of the bridge over time.