Replacing missing teeth: dentures, bridges and implants

Missing teeth can affect eating, speech and how you feel about your smile. Dentures, bridges and implants offer different ways to replace them. The best option depends on which teeth are missing, the health of your remaining teeth and gums, and what you want from treatment.

Start with an assessment

A missing tooth does not automatically mean neighbouring teeth will decay or fall out. Your dentist can explain whether filling the gap would help your bite or appearance and what could happen if you leave it. Before replacement treatment, any active decay or gum disease also needs attention.

A damaged or discoloured tooth is a different situation. It may be possible to restore the natural tooth rather than remove it. Do not assume that a cosmetic concern requires extraction.

What are the main options?

Dentures are removable replacements. A partial denture replaces some missing teeth, while a full denture replaces all the teeth in an upper or lower jaw. They can take time to get used to, particularly when eating or speaking, and need daily cleaning. Guy’s and St Thomas’ explains what to expect with dentures.

Bridges fill a gap with replacement teeth supported by neighbouring teeth or implants. Different designs have different requirements: your dentist should explain whether nearby teeth need preparation and how to clean around the bridge.

Dental implants are placed in the jawbone and can support a crown, bridge or denture. They involve surgery and a healing period, and are not suitable for everyone. Bone availability, gum health and general health are part of the assessment. Implants also need ongoing care; they are not a maintenance-free or guaranteed lifelong replacement.

A crown on a natural tooth covers and restores a tooth that is still present. It cannot replace a missing tooth on its own. A crown attached to an implant is part of a different treatment. Our guide to dental implants and crowns explains this distinction.

Comparing costs fairly

The listed fee for a partial denture with a metal framework replacing one to three teeth is £700 per arch. This is one particular type of denture, not a quote for every missing-tooth treatment.

For implant treatment, see our implant fees and ask for an itemised plan. The implant, abutment and crown are separate components: the abutment is not included in the listed implant or crown price. Any additional procedures must also be considered when comparing totals.

Ask about suitability, maintenance and likely future repairs as well as the initial cost. For payment options, see the current finance information. To discuss your own teeth, book an assessment.