Options for Missing Teeth: Dentures, Bridges & Implants Explained
- emmanuelr131
- Sep 9, 2025
- 3 min read
Missing teeth don’t just affect how your smile looks — they can impact confidence, speech, and even your ability to enjoy the foods you love. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective ways to restore both function and appearance.
At Greenbank Family Dental, we guide patients through their options with honesty and care, helping you choose a solution that’s right for your lifestyle and budget.
Dentures: The Traditional Option
Dentures are removable appliances designed to replace several or all missing teeth. They’ve been used for decades, and with today’s materials, they can look more natural than ever.
Pros:
Affordable upfront option
Suitable for replacing multiple teeth at once
Non-invasive, no surgery required
Cons:
Can slip or move while talking or eating
May take time to adjust to
Do not prevent bone loss over time
Best for:
Patients looking for a cost-effective solution or who aren’t ready for a permanent treatment.
Dental Bridges: A Fixed Mid-Point
A bridge uses neighbouring teeth as anchors to support an artificial tooth (or teeth) in between. It’s a fixed option that feels more secure than dentures.
Pros:
Fixed in place (not removable)
More natural feel than dentures
Restores function and aesthetics
Cons:
Requires reshaping healthy neighbouring teeth for support
Typically lasts 10–15 years before replacement
Doesn’t protect against jawbone shrinkage
Best for:
Patients missing one or two teeth who have strong adjacent teeth.
Dental Implants: The Gold Standard
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a crown is placed on top, creating a strong, natural-looking tooth replacement.
Pros:
Most durable and long-lasting solution (often lifelong)
Looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth
Preserves jawbone health and facial structure
No impact on adjacent teeth
Cons:
Higher initial cost compared to other options
Requires a minor surgical procedure
Best for:
Patients seeking a permanent, natural replacement with the best long-term results.
👉 Learn more about our advanced implant solutions on our Dental Implants Greenbank page or read our feature article: Dental Implants – The Natural Choice for a Confident Smile.
Comparing Your Options
Feature | Dentures | Bridges | Implants |
Durability | 5–7 years | 10–15 years | 20+ years (often lifelong) |
Stability | Removable | Fixed | Fixed into bone |
Aesthetics | Good | Very good | Best (most natural) |
Bone Health | No preservation | Limited | Preserves jawbone |
Cost | $ (lowest) | $$ | $$$ (investment) |
Frequently Asked Questions About Missing Teeth
What is the cheapest way to replace a missing tooth?
Dentures are usually the most affordable upfront option. Bridges and implants may offer better long-term value depending on your goals and oral health.
How much does it cost to replace a missing tooth?
Costs vary by treatment (denture, bridge, or implant). At Greenbank Family Dental, we publish our fees openly on our Promotions page so you know what to expect. We’ll also provide a personalised plan with itemised ADA codes to check any health fund rebates.
How long can I leave a missing tooth?
It’s best not to delay. Gaps can lead to tooth movement, bite problems, gum issues, and jawbone shrinkage — making future treatment more complex.
Do I need an implant if it’s just one missing tooth?
Not always. A bridge may work well, but an implant is often the healthiest long-term choice because it doesn’t affect neighbouring teeth and helps maintain bone.
Which is better: implants, dentures, or bridges?
It depends on your goals. Dentures are most affordable, bridges are fixed and reliable, and implants offer the most natural look, function, and durability.
Can I eat normally with dentures or bridges?
Yes, though dentures may limit certain foods and take time to adapt to. Bridges function more like natural teeth. Implants restore bite strength closest to natural teeth.
Do dental implants feel like real teeth?
Once healed, implants look, feel, and function very similar to natural teeth. Many patients forget which tooth is the implant.
Restoring Confidence Starts Here
Every smile is unique. At Greenbank Family Dental, we’ll take the time to understand your needs and guide you through the best option — whether that’s dentures, a bridge, or advanced dental implants.
✨ With gentle care, modern technology, and a local team you can trust, your confident smile is closer than you think.
📞 Call us today on (07) 2103 2343 or book online to arrange your consultation.
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