Dental Implants Vs. Crowns & Bridges: Which Option Is Best for Your Smile?

 If you are living with a missing or damaged tooth, you want a solution that feels natural and lasts. At Fremaux Dental Care in Slidell, Louisiana, Dr. Britney Beard helps patients restore their smiles every day. Choosing between dental implants and crowns and bridges is a major decision for your oral health.

Each option has unique structural benefits. Understanding how they work helps you make the right choice for your lifestyle and budget. We tailor every treatment plan to your specific anatomy and goals.

What is the difference between crowns, bridges, and implants?

A dental crown restores a single damaged tooth, while bridges and implants replace teeth that are completely missing. The American Dental Association notes that traditional bridges require grinding down healthy teeth next to the gap to support the replacement. 

An implant is a standalone unit. It does not require altering your neighboring teeth. At our office in Slidell, we evaluate your adjacent teeth to see if preserving their natural enamel is the best path forward.

Which option lasts longer, implants or bridges?

Dental implants generally offer higher long-term survival rates than traditional tooth-supported bridges. A 2025 study in the Journal of Contemporary Clinical Practice tracked 120 adults over five years. The researchers found a 93.3% survival rate for implant-supported restorations compared to 85.0% for traditional bridges. 

Relying on natural teeth to anchor a bridge is associated with a higher rate of decay or nerve failure over time. Dr. Beard offers both options and will help you weigh these long-term outcomes against your immediate needs.

What factors affect your implant success?

Your overall health plays a major role in how well an implant heals. For example, a 2026 systematic review in BMC Oral Health evaluated adults undergoing implant therapy. The review showed that poorly controlled diabetes, with HbA1c levels above 8%, is associated with worse healing outcomes. However, patients with well-controlled diabetes, at 7% or lower, had success rates comparable to non-diabetic patients.

We carefully review your medical history and check your bone health before starting. Our team works closely with you to ensure your body is ready for a successful restoration.

Ready to find the perfect restoration for your smile? Schedule a visit with Dr. Beard at Fremaux Dental Care in Slidell, Louisiaana, to discuss your options today.