I’ve had both.
I got a bridge to cover a lost second molar. The rear molar had a crown that broke. It made perfect sense to replace it and fill the empty space. Once the bridge is in place, you have to use a floss threader to get floss between the top of the bridge and the gum. I do this daily. It keeps the gum healthy evidently. I like the bridge.
I have an implant in the front where it was less expensive than a bridge. In the front, a bridge must cover a minimum of 4 teeth.
The cost of the bridge and the implant were similar.
I’m sorry you’re implant was painful. Mine was a normal amount of pain. The reports are that doctors take women’s pain less seriously than men’s. Perhaps you could talk to your dentist and explain you had pain with the implant, and you don’t want a repeat. It may also be good to get a new dentist.
I’m happy to answer more questions.