When you're missing multiple teeth, implants offer a stable, long-lasting solution. But how many implants do you need? One option is an implant-supported crown for each missing tooth—one implant per tooth. Another is an implant-supported bridge—fewer implants supporting multiple replacement teeth (pontics) between them. Both work; the best choice depends on your situation, your bone, and your budget. Here's how to compare them.
Implant-Supported Crowns (One Implant Per Tooth)
Each missing tooth gets its own implant and crown. This approach:
- Preserves maximum bone — Each implant stimulates the bone beneath it, preventing resorption.
- Offers the most natural function — Each tooth is independent, like natural teeth.
- Simplifies future repairs — If one crown needs replacement, only that one is affected.
- Costs more — More implants mean higher upfront cost.
- Requires adequate bone — Each implant needs sufficient bone at its site.
Implant-Supported Bridges (Fewer Implants, Multiple Teeth)
A bridge uses 2 (or more) implants to support 3 or more replacement teeth. The middle teeth (pontics) don't have implants beneath them—they're suspended between the implant-supported ends. This approach:
- Reduces cost — Fewer implants mean lower cost than one-per-tooth.
- Works when bone is limited — You might not have enough bone for an implant at every site. A bridge can span the gap.
- Still provides excellent function — Implant-supported bridges are stable and strong.
- May leave some areas without bone stimulation — The pontic areas don't have implants, so bone there may still resorb over time (though less than with no implants at all).
When Crowns (One Per Tooth) Make Sense
- You have adequate bone at each site
- Budget allows for multiple implants
- You want maximum bone preservation and the most natural setup
- You're replacing teeth in different areas (not a row)
When Bridges Make Sense
- You're replacing several teeth in a row
- Bone is limited at some sites
- You want to reduce cost while still getting implant stability
- A bridge can achieve your goals with fewer implants
The Bottom Line
There's no single "better" option—it depends on your anatomy, your goals, and your budget. Your dentist will evaluate your situation and recommend the approach that best fits your needs. Both implant-supported crowns and bridges can deliver excellent, long-lasting results.