There are three main ways to replace missing teeth: a dental implant, a bridge or a denture. Implants are the most natural and longest lasting but cost the most upfront. Bridges are fixed and quicker but rely on neighbouring teeth. Dentures are the most affordable and least invasive, especially for several missing teeth, but are removable and may be difficult adjusting to.
Side-by-side comparison
| Implant | Bridge | Denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed or removable | Fixed | Fixed | Removable |
| Typical lifespan | 20+ years (crown 10 to 15) | 10 to 15 years | 5 to 10 years |
| Affects other teeth | No | Yes, neighbours are reshaped | Clasps rest on teeth |
| Preserves jawbone | Yes | No | No |
| Treatment time | 3 to 6 months | 2 to 3 weeks | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Upfront cost | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
Dental implants
An implant replaces the tooth root with a titanium post, topped with a crown. Best for people with healthy gums and enough bone who want a long-term, natural-feeling result. Downsides: surgery, a longer timeline and higher upfront cost. At Melrose Advanced Dentistry, we provide in-house sedation for all surgical and implant procedures and claim directly from your medical aid for implant procedures.
Dental bridges
A bridge fills a gap with a false tooth anchored to crowns on the teeth either side. Best for a gap next to teeth that already need crowns. Downsides: healthy teeth are reshaped, and cleaning under the bridge takes extra effort.
Dentures
Partial dentures replace some teeth; full dentures replace all teeth in an arch. Best for several missing teeth or a budget-friendly option. Downsides: they can move when eating or speaking, need nightly removal and cleaning, and bone continues to shrink beneath them. Implant-retained dentures can solve the movement problem.
Why replacing a missing tooth matters
A gap can cause nearby teeth to tilt and opposite teeth to over-erupt, changing your bite. The jawbone also shrinks where a root is missing, which can alter your face shape over time.
Frequently asked questions
Which option feels most like a real tooth? An implant, because it is anchored in the bone like a natural root.
Can I switch from a denture to implants later? Often, yes, although bone grafting may be needed if bone has shrunk.
What is the cheapest way to replace a tooth? A partial denture usually has the lowest upfront cost.
Not sure which is right for you? Book a tooth replacement consultation at Melrose Advanced Dentistry in Melrose, Johannesburg: 072 200 1774 or advanced-dentistry.co.za.