Implants vs Bridges vs Dentures | Tooth Replacement Canberra

If you have lost a tooth, you may be weighing up dental implants, a bridge or a denture. Each option replaces missing teeth in a different way, and the right choice depends on your mouth, your health and your preferences.

Dental implants

An implant is a small titanium post placed in the jaw bone. Once it has bonded with the bone, it supports a crown, bridge or denture. Implants don’t rely on neighbouring teeth, but they need enough healthy bone and involve surgery and a healing period of several months.

Bridges

A bridge fills a gap using crowns on the teeth either side. It is fixed in place and doesn’t require surgery, but the supporting teeth need to be prepared, which removes some tooth structure.

Dentures

A denture is a removable plate that can replace one tooth or many. Dentures are usually the least invasive option, but they can feel less stable and need to be removed for cleaning.

Questions to ask your dentist

Which options suit my bone, gums and neighbouring teeth?
What are the risks of each option for me?
How long does each option take?
What will it cost, and what will my health fund cover?
How do I care for it long term?

At Glebe Park Dental we start with a consultation and give you a written quote before you decide. Learn more on our dental implants page.

How the options compare at a glance

Dental implants replace the root as well as the crown, so they do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support. Treatment usually takes several months because the implant needs time to integrate with the jawbone, and a minor surgical procedure is involved.
Bridges are fixed in place and can usually be completed over a shorter timeframe. They involve preparing the teeth either side of the gap, which may suit you if those teeth already have large fillings or crowns.
Dentures are removable and can replace one, several or all teeth in an arch. They are generally the least invasive option and can be adjusted or added to over time.

Things your dentist will consider

No single option suits everyone. Your dentist will usually look at the health of your gums and remaining teeth, the amount and quality of bone in the area, any medical conditions or medications that affect healing, whether you smoke, how many teeth are missing, and your budget and timeframe. X-rays or a 3D scan may be recommended to assess bone levels before implant treatment is discussed.

Caring for your replacement teeth

Whichever option you choose, daily cleaning and regular check-ups help it last. Implants and bridges need careful cleaning around the gum line, often with interdental brushes or floss threaders. Dentures should be removed and cleaned daily and checked periodically, as the shape of the gums and bone changes over time.

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth replacing a single missing back tooth?

A gap can allow neighbouring teeth to drift or tilt and the opposing tooth to over-erupt over time, which may affect your bite. Whether replacement is recommended depends on your situation, so it is worth discussing at a consultation.

How long do dental implants take?

Timeframes vary. Many patients need several months between placing the implant and fitting the final crown, and longer if bone grafting is needed first.

Can I get an implant if I wear dentures now?

Some denture wearers are suitable for implants or implant-retained dentures. An assessment of your bone and general health is needed first.

Dental implants, bridges or dentures? Comparing tooth replacement options