Dental implants replace both your tooth root and crown, making them the most complete tooth replacement option. Unlike dentures that sit on your gums, implants are anchored directly in your jawbone, eliminating slipping, clicking, or the need for adhesives.
Bridges require grinding down healthy adjacent teeth to serve as anchors, while implants preserve your natural teeth. Implants also prevent the jawbone loss that occurs with missing teeth, maintaining your facial structure over time.
While implants have a higher upfront cost, they typically last much longer than bridges or dentures. Bridges usually need replacement every 10-15 years, and dentures often require adjustments, relines, or replacement every 5-10 years. Most patients find implants more comfortable and natural-feeling than any alternative.