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, a dentist in San Juan Capistrano, 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.