A missing tooth can affect eating, speech or confidence, but not every gap needs replacing. If you would like a replacement, implants, bridges and dentures offer different ways forward. There is no single best choice for everyone.
Dental implants
An implant is placed in the jaw to support a replacement tooth, or sometimes a bridge or denture. It can provide a fixed replacement without using neighbouring teeth for support, but involves surgery and a period of healing.
Suitability depends on factors such as bone support, gum health, medical history and smoking. Additional treatment may be needed, and implants require ongoing cleaning and professional maintenance.
Dental bridges
A bridge is a fixed replacement supported by neighbouring teeth. Depending on the situation, it may be bonded to a supporting tooth or require preparation of one or more teeth for crowns.
It can suit someone who prefers a fixed option without implant surgery, where the supporting teeth and bite are suitable. We’ll explain any effect on those teeth and how to clean around and beneath the bridge.
Dentures
A denture is a removable replacement for some or all missing teeth. It can replace several teeth together and may suit someone who prefers to avoid surgery or wants a removable option.
Dentures need daily cleaning and time to get used to. Their stability, comfort and appearance depend on the design and the support available. We’ll discuss the materials, how the denture is held in place and any future adjustments.
What matters when choosing?
We consider the position and number of missing teeth, your bite, the health of your remaining teeth and gums, and any relevant medical factors. Your preferences matter too: fixed or removable, surgery or no surgery, cleaning, treatment time and cost.
Leaving a gap may also be a reasonable option after assessment. We’ll explain the likely benefits, limitations and maintenance of the suitable choices, so you can decide without pressure.
Planning after an extraction
If a tooth needs removing, replacement options and timing can often be discussed beforehand. Healing, the condition of the area and the type of replacement all affect the plan. A temporary replacement may be considered where appropriate.
Read about extractions and aftercare →
Support for nervous patients →