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CAL DENTAL GROUP • LOS ANGELES
Compare your tooth-replacement options
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Michael Issakharian, DDS
Dental implants, dentures, and bridges can all replace missing teeth. The right option depends on your remaining teeth, bone and gum health, treatment preferences, and budget. An implant can also support a bridge or denture, so these terms sometimes overlap.
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Dental implants: support within the jaw
Implants can support a crown, bridge, or denture. They involve surgery and healing and require ongoing care of the surrounding tissues. A single implant crown may avoid reshaping adjacent healthy teeth. Ask how the planned implant and restoration work together and what maintenance is expected.
Tooth-supported bridges: a fixed alternative
A conventional bridge uses adjacent teeth for support. It may be considered when those teeth are suitable anchors, particularly if they also need restoration. Preparing supporting teeth changes their structure. Ask how the bridge will be cleaned and what happens if a supporting tooth develops a problem.
Conventional dentures: removable replacement
Partial dentures replace some teeth; complete dentures replace an entire arch. They offer an option without implant surgery, although extractions or other preparation may still be needed. Discuss fit, adjustments, daily removal, and cleaning. Ask whether an implant-supported removable design could also meet your goals.
Compare everyday use, not only appearance
For every suitable option, ask how you will eat, speak, and clean; whether the teeth come out; and what appointments are needed. A fixed restoration may appeal to you, while a removable design may offer easier access for cleaning in some situations. Explain your preferences without assuming one approach suits everyone.
Compare the complete costs
Request estimates that include preparation, temporary teeth, final restoration, and follow-up. Ask about future repairs, relines, attachments, and replacement. Bring insurance details so benefits can be checked, and make sure each proposal covers the same number of teeth or arches.
EXPERIENCE AT CAL DENTAL GROUP
10,000 implants over 20 years
Practice-wide implant experience, with general dentists and specialists working together in our Los Angeles office.
Plan your visit
936 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 101
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Explore all dental implant options
Meet Dr. Michael Issakharian, oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and Dr. Pedram Fakheri, periodontist.
Ask which clinician will provide your surgical and restorative care.
Questions patients ask
Are implants always better than a bridge?
No. The condition of the neighboring teeth, your health, the treatment required, and your preferences can make a bridge an appropriate choice.
Can a denture be supported by implants?
Yes. Removable implant dentures and fixed full-arch restorations use implants in different ways. Ask which design is being discussed.
Which option lasts longest?
There is no guaranteed lifespan for any option. Maintenance, oral health, bite forces, materials, and complications influence how long it serves you.
Continue exploring your options
Single-tooth implants
A single-tooth implant replaces one missing tooth with an implant in the jaw and a custom crown above the gumline.
Implant-supported dentures
Implant-supported dentures use dental implants to help hold replacement teeth in place.
Cost & financing
The cost of dental implants depends on what is being replaced and the care needed to complete the treatment.
Patient education from Cal Dental Group. Updated October 21, 2026. Meet our dental team.
Additional reading: ADA: Dental implants · AAP: Single implants and bridge comparisons.
This guide explains options to discuss with your clinician. Your examination determines the appropriate treatment, risks, and timeline.