Why replace a missing tooth
One missing tooth may seem small. But the teeth next to the gap can move and throw off your bite. Chewing on that side gets harder. The jawbone under the gap also shrinks, because nothing uses it.
Implants, bridges and dentures all replace missing teeth. Here is how they compare.
Implants: a new root and a new tooth
An implant is a small titanium post in your jawbone. It holds a crown, a bridge or a denture.
The good: it stands alone and does not touch other teeth. It chews most like a real tooth. It also helps keep your jawbone. Cleveland Clinic says it can last a lifetime with good care.
To think about: it needs minor surgery. Healing takes three to nine months, says Cleveland Clinic. You need healthy gums and enough bone, or a graft. It usually costs more at the start.
Bridges: a fixed tooth held by the teeth next door
A bridge fills a gap with a false tooth. Crowns (tooth caps) on the teeth on each side hold it. It is cemented in place, so you do not take it out.
The good: it takes a few weeks, with no surgery. It looks natural and brings back chewing on that side.
To think about: the healthy teeth on each side must be shaved down for good. If one gets a cavity or cracks, the whole bridge is at risk. Cleveland Clinic says bridges last five to fifteen years on average. You clean under it daily with special floss or small brushes.
A bridge can also sit on implants. This is common when three or more teeth in a row are missing.
Dentures and partials: teeth you can take out
A full denture replaces all the teeth on top or bottom. A partial fills gaps when you still have some healthy teeth. It holds on with small clasps (clips).
The good: they replace many teeth at once, with no surgery. They usually cost the least at the start.
To think about: getting used to them takes weeks or months. The American Dental Association's MouthHealthy site says new dentures can feel loose at first. Your cheek and tongue muscles need time to learn to hold them. As your gums and bone change, the fit changes. Cleveland Clinic advises a reline (a refit) every year or two. Most dentures need replacing after seven to ten years.
Implants can also hold a denture that snaps on or stays fixed. For people who want dentures that do not slip, this is the middle path.
Side by side
A quick way to compare:
- Teeth next to the gap: an implant leaves them alone. A bridge shaves them down. A partial clips on.
- Time: a bridge or denture takes weeks. An implant takes a few months.
- Surgery: only for an implant
- How long it lasts: implant, a lifetime with care. Bridge, five to fifteen years. Denture, seven to ten.
- Every day: implants and bridges stay in. Dentures usually come out at night.
- Cost at the start: dentures are usually lowest. Implants are usually highest.
How we help you choose
We check your teeth, gums and bone with digital X-rays. For implants, we also take a 3D scan (CBCT) in our office. It shows exactly how much bone you have.
Then we show you each option that fits, with its steps, timing and cost. Dr. Alfredo Calderon and Dr. David Faget lead implant care here. Dr. Calderon has over 15 years of experience placing implants and making the teeth on top.
We take most dental insurance plans and most Medicare supplemental plans. Financing is available. New patients can call 305-271-1421 for a free implant evaluation.
Common questions
Which option lasts the longest?
An implant, with good care. Cleveland Clinic says it can last a lifetime.
Is a bridge cheaper than an implant?
At the start, yes. Over the years, care and replacements add up. Implants start at $99 a month with financing.
Am I too old for implants?
Health matters more than age. Many adults in their 60s and 70s are good candidates. Your dentist checks your health and your 3D scan first.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Your dentist will confirm what is right for you at your exam. General information checked against: my.clevelandclinic.org, my.clevelandclinic.org, my.clevelandclinic.org, mouthhealthy.org.