Missing teeth affect more than just appearance — they can make eating and speaking harder, and over time the surrounding teeth begin to shift. The good news is there are reliable options to fill the gap, each with different trade-offs depending on your situation.
Here is a plain comparison of the three main options.
| Dental implant | Dental bridge | Denture |
|---|---|---|
| Permanent replacement | Fixed, non-removable | Removable appliance |
| ✓ Fixed permanently in the mouth — never removed
✓ Looks and functions like a natural tooth ✓ No impact on neighbouring teeth ✓ Can last a lifetime with good care ✓ Preserves jaw bone |
✓ Fixed in place — not removable
✓ Natural appearance ✓ Faster than an implant |
✓ Lowest upfront cost
✓ No surgery required ✓ Good short-to-medium term option |
| ✗ Higher upfront cost
✗ Treatment takes 6–12 months ✗ Not suitable for everyone — bone assessment required |
✗ Neighbouring teeth must be shaped down
✗ Longevity depends on the health of neighbouring teeth ✗ Harder to clean underneath ✗ Does not preserve jaw bone |
✗ Removed for cleaning and must be taken out at night
✗ Can feel less stable ✗ May need periodic adjustment ✗ Does not preserve jaw bone |
| Learn more | Learn more | Learn more |
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Which option is right for you?
The best choice depends on your bone structure, the number of missing teeth, budget, and how quickly you want treatment completed. There is no single right answer — we will take an x-ray, assess your situation, and give you an honest recommendation with clear costs before anything is planned.