Bridge vs. Implant for a Missing Tooth in San Juan Capistrano: Cost, Durability & Care

San Juan Capistrano, CA

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If you’ve lost a tooth, two of the most common replacement options are dental bridges and dental implants. Patients in San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, and Aliso Viejo often ask: “Which option is better for me?”

At Kaban Dental Group, we offer both treatments—and the right choice depends on your oral health, goals, and budget. Here’s a breakdown of cost, durability, and care to help you make an informed decision.

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What Is a Dental Bridge?

A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by attaching a false tooth (pontic) between two crowns that anchor to neighboring teeth.

Pros:

• Usually completed in 2 visits

• Less invasive—no surgery required

• Often covered in part by insurance

Cons:

• Requires reshaping healthy adjacent teeth

• Doesn’t prevent bone loss where the tooth was missing

• May need replacement after 10–15 years

Learn more about Crowns & Bridges in San Juan Capistrano.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant replaces the entire tooth root with a titanium post topped by a crown. It’s a permanent solution that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

Pros:

• Long-lasting (often 20+ years)

• Prevents jawbone loss

• Doesn’t affect neighboring teeth

• Feels and functions like your own tooth

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost

• Requires surgical placement and healing time

Learn more about Dental Implants in San Juan Capistrano.

Cost Comparison in San Juan Capistrano

Bridge

Dental Bridge

Average Cost / Tooth

$2,000 – $4,000

Longevity

~10–15 years

Maintenance

Regular cleanings; may need replacement

Insurance Coverage

Often partially covered

Note: Requires reshaping neighboring teeth; does not prevent bone loss at the missing tooth site.

Learn about Bridges →

Implant

Dental Implant

Average Cost / Tooth

$3,500 – $5,500

Longevity

20+ years (often decades)

Maintenance

Brush & floss like natural teeth

Insurance Coverage

Varies; sometimes partial

Note: Surgical placement with a healing phase; preserves jawbone and doesn’t affect adjacent teeth.

Explore Implants →

Durability and Maintenance

• Bridges: Depend on the health of the supporting teeth and regular dental checkups. If one tooth under a crown fails, the entire bridge may need replacement.

• Implants: Supported by the jawbone, offering the most stable and independent solution. With proper care, implants can last decades or even a lifetime.

Learn more about Implant Recovery After Extraction: Week-by-Week Guide for San Juan Capistrano Patients.

Aesthetic & Functional Differences

Both bridges and implants restore your ability to chew and speak, but:

• Implants blend seamlessly with natural teeth and prevent bone shrinkage.

• Bridges fill the visible gap but may slightly affect bite balance if not maintained.

If aesthetics and long-term health are priorities, implants usually offer the best results.

Which Option Is Best for You?

Your dentist will evaluate:

• Jawbone health and density

• Condition of nearby teeth

• Your medical history and oral hygiene

• Budget and insurance coverage

In some cases, a bridge is the right short-term solution; in others, an implant provides the most lasting value.

Expert Restorative Care in South OC

At Kaban Dental Group, we provide both dental bridges and implants under one roof for patients across San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, and Aliso Viejo.

📞 Call us at (949) 496-5585 or schedule your consultation online to find the right solution for your smile.