Missing a Tooth in Mauldin? Dental Bridge vs. Dental Implant
A missing tooth affects how you eat, speak and smile. If you live in Mauldin, Upstate Smiles at 672 Fairview Rd. in Simpsonville is typically a 10 to 15 minute drive, and we help patients from Mauldin, Greenville and across the Upstate choose the right way to replace a missing tooth.
The two most common options are a dental bridge and a dental implant. Both restore your smile, but they work differently.
How a Dental Bridge Works
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth using a custom-made restoration anchored to the teeth on either side of the gap. At Upstate Smiles, each bridge is crafted for comfort and a natural appearance, so you can eat and speak with confidence again.
How a Dental Implant Works
A dental implant has two parts. A root form is placed in the jaw to replace the tooth root. Once the bone has healed, a crown is placed on top. The result is very close to a natural tooth. For a step-by-step look at long-term maintenance, see our guide on how to care for dental implants.
Bridge vs. Implant: What to Consider
- Neighboring teeth: A bridge relies on the teeth beside the gap for support. An implant stands on its own.
- Jawbone: An implant is anchored in the jaw, which matters for long-term bite function.
- Timeline: An implant involves a healing period before the crown is placed.
- Your situation: Which option suits you depends on the health of nearby teeth, your jawbone and your goals.
If you are missing a single tooth, either option may work. Dr. Bruce will explain the pros and cons of each during your consultation, so the recommendation fits you rather than a template.
Why Patients Choose Dr. Bruce
Dr. William "Bo" Bruce earned his D.M.D. from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1998 and completed residency training at The Dawson Center for Advanced Dental Studies. His practice is geared toward complex restorative and aesthetic problems, and he is an accredited member of the American
Dental Association and the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Learn more about our Simpsonville practice.
Serving Mauldin and the Greenville Area
We welcome patients from Simpsonville, Greenville and Mauldin, including families across the Greenville area. If you are also weighing other restorations, our guide to inlays and onlays explains options for teeth that can still be saved. New to our office? Read what to expect in our family dentist guide.
Emergencies, Insurance and Financing
If a bridge or crown comes loose, contact us and we will see you the same day whenever possible during office hours. See our emergency dentist guide for details. We accept and file insurance for all providers except Medicaid and Medicare, and offer CareCredit financing. Details are on our Financing Options page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get a bridge or an implant?
It depends on your neighboring teeth, jawbone and goals. Dr. Bruce will review both options at your consultation.
How far is Upstate Smiles from Mauldin?
Patients from Mauldin are typically 10 to 15 minutes away.
Do you offer same-day emergency care?
Yes, whenever possible during office hours: Monday to Wednesday 8 AM to 5 PM, and Thursday 7 AM to 1 PM.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We accept and file for all providers except Medicaid and Medicare, and offer CareCredit financing.
Ready to Replace a Missing Tooth?
Call Upstate Smiles at (864) 962-5522 or book an appointment online.
