Dentures, bridges or implants: how to replace missing teeth
If you have lost one or more teeth, there are three main ways to replace them: a removable denture, a fixed bridge or a dental implant. Each one suits different situations and budgets. This guide compares them side by side so you know what to ask at your consultation.
Side by side
| Denture | Bridge | Implant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed or removable | Removable | Fixed | Fixed |
| Usual visits | 3 to 5 | 2 | 4 to 6 |
| Time to finish | 2 to 4 weeks | 1 to 2 weeks | 3 to 6 months |
| Neighbouring teeth | Partial dentures clasp onto them | Reshaped to hold the bridge | Not touched |
| Healthpoint starting price | From AED 250 (partial) | From AED 249 per unit | From AED 3,500 per tooth |
| Suits | Several missing teeth, or all teeth in a jaw, on a budget | One or two missing teeth next to strong teeth | One or more missing teeth with enough healthy bone |
A three-unit bridge, which replaces one missing tooth, counts as three units. Prices are starting prices; the dentist confirms your price after examining your teeth.
Dentures
A denture is the quickest and most affordable way to replace several teeth or a whole jaw. It is removable, so it needs taking out for cleaning and at night. It takes a few weeks to get used to eating and speaking with one, and because gums and bone change shape over time, dentures usually need relining or remaking after some years.
Bridges
A bridge is fixed in place and feels much like natural teeth. It is held by crowns on the teeth either side of the gap, which means those teeth are reshaped, even if they were healthy. Bridges are a good option when the neighbouring teeth already need crowns, and they are finished in about two visits.
Implants
An implant replaces the tooth root with a titanium post, topped with a crown. It does not rely on or affect the neighbouring teeth and is cleaned like a natural tooth. It costs more and takes several months, and it needs enough healthy bone; smoking and uncontrolled diabetes raise the risk of problems.
Combining options
Options can be combined. Two or more implants can hold a denture firmly in place, and implants can support a bridge when several teeth in a row are missing. The dentist explains which combinations suit your mouth.
What decides the right choice for you
- How many teeth are missing, and where.
- The health of your gums, your remaining teeth and your jawbone.
- Your general health, including diabetes and smoking.
- Whether you prefer something fixed or are happy with removable.
- Your budget now and over the years, including relines, repairs and replacements.
Your consultation is free. The dentist examines your mouth, explains which options suit you and gives you the price of each so you can compare. You can pay in instalments with Tabby or Tamara, subject to their approval.
Frequently asked questions
Which costs the least: a denture, bridge or implant?
A denture usually costs the least at the start, then a bridge, then an implant. Over many years the gap can narrow, because dentures need relining or remaking.
Which feels most like natural teeth?
Implants and bridges are fixed in place and feel closest to natural teeth. Dentures are removable and take a few weeks to get used to.
Does a bridge damage the teeth next to it?
The teeth either side are reshaped to hold the bridge, which cannot be undone. That is why bridges are often chosen when those teeth already need crowns.
How long does each option take?
A bridge usually takes about one to two weeks, a denture two to four weeks, and an implant three to six months from placement to the final crown.
Medical review: to be completed by a Healthpoint dentist, whose name and title will be shown here. This guide is general information, not a diagnosis; your dentist will advise on your own teeth.