Losing a tooth affects how you chew, speak and smile, and a gap can allow neighbouring teeth to drift over time. The three main ways to replace a missing tooth are a dental implant, a bridge or a denture, and choosing between a dental implant vs bridge is one of the most common questions we hear. This guide compares them so you can have an informed conversation with your dentist.
Quick comparison
| Dental implant | Bridge | Denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Titanium or ceramic post placed in the jawbone, topped with a crown | False tooth held by crowns on the neighbouring teeth | Removable plate with one or more false teeth |
| Fixed or removable | Fixed | Fixed | Removable |
| Affects nearby teeth | No | Yes, neighbouring teeth are prepared for crowns | Clasps may rest on nearby teeth |
| Surgery needed | Yes, minor oral surgery | No | No |
| Typical treatment time | Several months (healing stage) | A few weeks | A few weeks |
| Relative cost | Highest upfront | Moderate | Lowest upfront |
Dental implants
An implant replaces the root of the tooth. After the implant heals and bonds with the bone, a crown is attached. Implants do not rely on neighbouring teeth and help maintain the bone where the tooth was lost.
- Good for: people with healthy gums, enough bone and good general health.
- Consider: it involves surgery and a healing period, smoking and some medical conditions reduce success, and it is usually the most expensive option upfront.
Read more on our dental implants Glenmore Park page.
Dental bridges
A bridge uses the teeth either side of the gap as anchors. Those teeth are shaped and crowned, and a false tooth is joined between them.
- Good for: gaps where the neighbouring teeth already need crowns, or when surgery is not suitable.
- Consider: healthy tooth structure is removed from the anchor teeth, and cleaning under the bridge needs special floss or brushes.
Learn more about crowns and bridges in Glenmore Park.
Dentures
A partial denture replaces one or several teeth and clips in and out. Full dentures replace all teeth in an arch.
- Good for: several missing teeth, a lower upfront budget, or when implants are not suitable.
- Consider: dentures take time to get used to, are less stable when chewing, and need relining or replacing as your mouth changes.
See our dentures Glenmore Park page. Partial dentures are also covered under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule for eligible children, and eligible adults may access dentures through NSW public dental services. See our guide to free and low-cost dental care in NSW.
What affects the cost?
- The number of teeth being replaced
- Whether bone grafting or extractions are needed first
- The materials used for the crown, bridge or denture
- Your health fund cover (implants, bridges and dentures usually fall under major dental, with longer waiting periods)
We give you a written quote with item numbers so you can check your rebate before deciding. For an overview of common procedures, see healthdirect’s guide to dental procedures. See dental costs and fees.
Dental implant vs bridge: which lasts longer?
With good care and regular check-ups, both implants and bridges can last many years. How long they last depends on your oral hygiene, gum health, bite forces (for example, grinding), smoking and general health. The crown on an implant, and a bridge, may eventually need replacing due to wear. We discuss the expected maintenance for each option at your consultation.
Looking after your replacement tooth
- Implants: brush twice daily and clean around the implant with floss or interdental brushes, as gum disease around implants can lead to bone loss.
- Bridges: use a floss threader, superfloss or small brushes to clean under the false tooth every day.
- Dentures: remove and clean them daily, leave them out overnight unless advised otherwise, and have the fit checked regularly.
- All options: keep up regular check-ups and cleans so problems are picked up early.
How to decide
The right choice depends on your oral health, bone levels, general health, budget and personal preferences. At a consultation we examine the area, take X-rays where needed, and explain the benefits, risks and costs of each option. Glenmore Park Dental Services is at Shop 17b/11 Town Terrace, Glenmore Park NSW 2745, open Monday to Friday 9:00 am to 6:30 pm and Saturday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Call 02 4733 1197 or book online.
This article is general information only and is not a substitute for advice about your own situation. Any dental treatment carries risks; speak with a registered dental practitioner before proceeding.
Frequently asked questions
Is a dental implant better than a bridge?
Neither is better for everyone. An implant does not involve the neighbouring teeth but needs surgery and healing time. A bridge is quicker and avoids surgery but requires crowning the teeth either side of the gap.
What is the cheapest way to replace a missing tooth?
A partial denture usually has the lowest upfront cost. Implants usually cost the most upfront.
How long does a dental implant take?
Treatment usually takes several months because the implant needs time to heal and bond with the bone before the crown is fitted.
Does health insurance cover dental implants?
Many extras policies with major dental cover contribute to implants, bridges and dentures, subject to waiting periods and annual limits. Check with your fund using the item numbers on your quote.
What happens if I do not replace a missing tooth?
Neighbouring teeth can drift or tilt into the gap, the opposing tooth can over-erupt, and chewing can become harder. Bone in the area can also shrink over time.