If you have one or more missing teeth, there are several ways to restore your smile and improve your ability to chew comfortably. Dental implants, bridges and dentures are three common tooth replacement options, but each works differently and may be suitable for different situations.
Understanding the differences between dental implants, bridges and dentures can help you have a more informed discussion with your dentist about your options.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are designed to replace the root of a missing tooth. An implant is placed into the jawbone and can support a custom-made crown once the area has healed.
Because the implant is fixed into the jawbone, an implant-supported crown can provide a stable, fixed option for replacing an individual missing tooth.
Learn more about implant crowns at Pinewood Dental Group.
What Are Dental Bridges?
A dental bridge is designed to replace one or more missing teeth by using neighbouring teeth for support.
Bridges are fixed in place and can restore the appearance and function of your smile without requiring a removable appliance.
You can learn more about this treatment on our crowns and bridges page.
What Are Dentures?
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace missing teeth. Depending on your needs, you may require a partial denture to replace several teeth or a full denture to replace an entire arch.
At Pinewood Dental Group, we provide custom-made dentures designed to fit comfortably and restore your ability to eat and speak.
Explore our custom dentures page to learn more.
Dental Implants vs Bridges vs Dentures
Although all three treatments can replace missing teeth, there are important differences between them.
Dental implants are supported by an implant placed into the jawbone. The implant acts as an artificial tooth root and can support a crown.
Dental bridges use neighbouring teeth for support.
Dentures rest within the mouth and are removable. The type of denture required will depend on how many teeth need to be replaced and your individual circumstances.
Dental implants and bridges are fixed restorations once treatment has been completed.
Dentures are removable and can be taken out for cleaning and as recommended by your dentist.
A dental implant and crown can replace an individual missing tooth. Multiple implants may also be considered when several teeth are missing.
A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth, depending on the condition of the teeth supporting it.
Dentures can replace several missing teeth or a complete arch.
Dental Implants vs Bridges
Dental implants and bridges can both provide fixed solutions for missing teeth, but they work differently.
An implant replaces the root of a missing tooth, while a bridge relies on neighbouring teeth for support.
Your dentist will assess your oral health, remaining teeth and individual circumstances before determining which option may be suitable.
If you’re considering an implant-supported restoration, our implant crowns page provides more information.
Dental Implants vs Dentures
Dental implants and dentures also differ in how they are supported and maintained.
Implants are fixed into the jawbone, while dentures are removable. Dentures may be suitable for replacing several missing teeth or a complete arch.
If you’re specifically comparing these two options, read our guide to dental implants vs dentures.
Bridges vs Dentures
Both bridges and dentures can replace multiple missing teeth, but they are supported differently.
A bridge is fixed in place and relies on neighbouring teeth for support. Dentures are removable and can replace several teeth or a complete arch.
Your dentist can assess your remaining teeth and oral health to help determine which option may be appropriate.
Which Tooth Replacement Option Is Best?
There is no single tooth replacement option that is best for everyone.
Your dentist may consider:
- The number of missing teeth
- The location of the missing teeth
- The condition of your remaining teeth
- Your gum health
- The condition of your jawbone
- Your overall oral health
- Your treatment preferences
- Your long-term dental goals
- Your ability to maintain the restoration
An assessment is important before choosing between dental implants, bridges and dentures.
What Happens If You Don't Replace a Missing Tooth?
Not every missing tooth necessarily needs to be replaced immediately. However, leaving a gap may affect your bite, chewing ability and surrounding teeth over time.
Depending on the location of the missing tooth, neighbouring teeth may move into the space.
Read our guide to what happens if you don’t replace a missing tooth to learn more about the potential effects of tooth loss.
You can also visit our missing teeth treatment page to explore the options available at Pinewood Dental Group.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
If you’re considering dental implants, you may also want to know how long they can last.
Dental implants are designed as a long-term tooth replacement option, although their longevity can depend on factors such as oral hygiene, gum health, lifestyle and ongoing dental care.
Read our guide to how long dental implants last to learn more about maintaining your implant.
How Do You Choose Between Implants, Bridges and Dentures?
The right option depends on your individual dental needs.
Your dentist can assess your teeth, gums and jawbone and discuss the benefits and considerations of each treatment.
You don’t have to decide which treatment is right for you before your appointment. A professional assessment can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.
Replace Missing Teeth at Pinewood Dental Group
Living with missing teeth can affect your confidence, comfort and ability to chew. Fortunately, there are several ways to restore your smile.
Pinewood Dental Group provides personalised restorative dental care in Mount Waverley. Our team can assess your oral health and discuss whether dental implants, bridges, dentures or another treatment may be appropriate for you.
For a broader overview of tooth replacement options, read our [guide to dental implants and tooth replacement].
Have you lost one or more teeth and aren’t sure which replacement option is right for you? Contact Pinewood Dental Group to arrange a consultation and discuss dental implants, bridges and dentures with our dental team. We proudly provide personalised dental care for patients in Mount Waverley and surrounding suburbs.
