Dental Implants vs a 3-Unit Bridge: Comparing Long-Term Value

When you lose a single tooth, you are typically presented with two main treatment options: a dental implant or a 3-unit bridge. Both can restore your appearance and chewing function, but they differ significantly in how they work, how long they may last, and what they mean for your surrounding teeth.

In this guide, we compare dental implants and 3-unit bridges across several important factors — including longevity, cost over time, bone health and impact on adjacent teeth — so you can make a well-informed decision about your care. This article provides general information to support your decision-making. It is not a substitute for personalised clinical advice, and treatment suitability can only be determined through an individual assessment by a qualified dentist.

What Is a 3-Unit Bridge?

A 3-unit bridge is a fixed dental restoration that replaces a missing tooth by anchoring an artificial tooth (called a pontic) to the two teeth on either side of the gap. These adjacent teeth, known as abutment teeth, must be filed down and fitted with crowns to support the bridge.

Bridges have been used in dentistry for decades and remain a well-established option. They can be made from porcelain, ceramic, metal-fused-to-porcelain, or zirconia, and they are cemented permanently in place.

• Replaces one missing tooth using three connected crowns
• Requires preparation (filing) of two adjacent teeth, which may be healthy or may already have existing restorations
• Fixed restoration — not removable by the patient
• Usually completed in two to three appointments
• Does not require surgery

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium or zirconia post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant integrates with the bone — a process known as osseointegration — a custom-made crown is attached to the top.

Unlike a bridge, a dental implant is a standalone restoration. It does not rely on adjacent teeth for support, and it stimulates the jawbone in a way that may help preserve bone density over time.

• Replaces one missing tooth independently — no adjacent teeth affected
• Titanium or zirconia post integrates with the jawbone
• Crown, bridge or denture can be supported on the implant
• Requires a minor surgical procedure
• Treatment typically takes three to six months from placement to final crown

Key Differences Between Implants and Bridges

While both options can effectively replace a missing tooth, there are several important differences to consider:

Impact on Adjacent Teeth

One of the most significant differences between the two options is what happens to the teeth next to the gap. A 3-unit bridge requires the two neighbouring teeth to be permanently filed down — removing healthy enamel — so crowns can be fitted over them. Once this enamel is removed, it cannot be replaced.

A dental implant, on the other hand, stands independently in the jawbone. The adjacent teeth remain completely untouched. For many clinicians, this preservation of healthy tooth structure is one of the strongest arguments in favour of implants.

Bone Preservation

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding jawbone can begin to resorb (shrink) over time because it is no longer stimulated by a tooth root. A dental implant replaces that root and provides ongoing stimulation to the bone, which may help maintain its volume and density.

A bridge sits above the gum line and does not interact with the jawbone. As a result, bone loss beneath the pontic may continue over the years. This can sometimes lead to changes in the appearance of the gum tissue and the fit of the bridge.

Which Option Tends to Last Longer?

No dental restoration lasts forever, and longevity depends on many factors including oral hygiene, diet, general health and regular dental check-ups. However, the clinical evidence does suggest some general trends:

• Dental implants: Studies suggest that well-maintained implants can last 15 to 25 years or more. Some patients retain their implants for decades, although the crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years.
• 3-unit bridges: The average lifespan of a dental bridge is typically 7 to 15 years, depending on the materials used and the health of the supporting teeth. If one of the abutment teeth develops decay or fractures, the entire bridge may need to be replaced.

It is important to note that individual results vary. Some bridges last well beyond 15 years, while some implants may encounter complications earlier. Your dentist can help you understand what is most realistic for your specific situation.

Cost Comparison: Short-Term vs Long-Term

In terms of initial cost, a 3-unit bridge is often less expensive than a single dental implant. In London, a bridge may cost between £1,500 and £3,000, while a single implant with crown typically ranges from £2,500 to £4,000. These are indicative figures at the time of writing and may vary; please request a personalised quotation for current pricing.

However, when you consider the potential long-term costs, the picture can change. If a bridge needs replacing every 10 to 15 years, the cumulative cost may approach or exceed the cost of an implant over a similar period. However, it is worth noting that the crown attached to an implant may also need replacement or repair during that time, and there may be additional costs if the abutment teeth supporting a bridge develop problems as a result of being prepared.

When we refer to dental implants as an 'investment', we mean it in the sense of long-term planning for your oral health — not as a guaranteed financial return. Every patient's circumstances are different, and a thorough consultation is the best way to understand what treatment represents the best value for you.

Preserving Your Natural Teeth

One principle that guides modern restorative dentistry is the idea of preserving as much natural tooth structure as possible. Healthy enamel, once removed, cannot regenerate.

With a 3-unit bridge, the two abutment teeth are permanently altered. Even if those teeth are perfectly healthy, they must be reduced in size to accommodate the bridge crowns. This can, in some cases, increase the long-term risk of sensitivity, decay beneath the crown, or fracture of the prepared teeth.

With a dental implant, the missing tooth is replaced without touching any other teeth. For patients who value preserving their natural dentition, this can be a compelling advantage.

When Might a Bridge Be More Suitable?

While dental implants offer several advantages, a bridge may be the more appropriate choice in certain situations:

• If the adjacent teeth already have large fillings or crowns — they may benefit from being crowned as part of a bridge
• If there is insufficient bone for an implant and the patient prefers to avoid bone grafting
• If the patient has medical conditions that make surgery inadvisable
• If the patient prefers a quicker, non-surgical solution
• If cost is the primary concern and a shorter-term solution is acceptable

Both options are clinically valid, and neither is inherently better than the other in all circumstances. What matters most is which option best suits your individual clinical situation, your priorities and your budget.

How to Choose the Right Option for You

Choosing between a dental implant and a bridge is a decision that should be made in partnership with your dentist, based on a thorough clinical assessment. Key factors to consider include:

• The health and condition of the adjacent teeth
• The quality and volume of your jawbone
• Your general health and medical history
• Your long-term goals for your oral health
• Your budget and preferred treatment timeline

A detailed consultation — including clinical examination, X-rays and, where appropriate, a CT scan — will give your dentist the information needed to recommend the most suitable option for you.

Dental Implants vs Bridges in London

At our CQC-registered practice in South Kensington, we offer both dental implants and bridges as part of a comprehensive range of restorative treatments. We believe in giving patients all the information they need to make confident, informed decisions — without pressure.

During your consultation, we will assess your clinical situation, explain all available options clearly, and provide a detailed written treatment plan with transparent pricing. Whether an implant or a bridge is more suitable for you, we will support you every step of the way.

If you would like to explore your options for replacing a missing tooth, please book a consultation or contact our team to arrange an appointment. We are here to help you find the right solution for your smile.

This article provides general information comparing dental implants and 3-unit bridges. It is not intended as personalised dental or financial advice. Longevity and cost outcomes vary depending on individual factors. Neither option is guaranteed to last a specific length of time. A full clinical assessment is required to determine which treatment is most suitable for your needs. Please consult your dentist for advice specific to your situation.