💡 Choosing between dental implants, dentures, and bridges? This guide compares appearance, comfort, longevity, and UK costs — plus practical pros and cons — so you can decide what fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, three main options are available in the UK: dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. Each has its advantages, disadvantages, and ideal use cases.
But how do you know which one is right for you?
At The Campbell Clinic in Nottingham, we’ve helped thousands of patients restore their smiles with all three solutions. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences, costs, pros and cons, and long-term considerations to help you make an informed choice.
Why Tooth Replacement Matters
- Difficulty chewing and speaking clearly
- Loss of confidence in social situations
- Shifting of neighbouring teeth, causing bite issues
- Bone loss in the jaw over time
- Premature ageing due to facial structure changes
The right tooth replacement option doesn’t just restore your smile — it protects your long-term oral health.
Option 1: Dental Implants
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are small titanium posts that replace missing tooth roots. They integrate with the jawbone and support a crown, bridge, or denture.
Benefits of dental implants:
- ✅ Look, feel, and function like natural teeth
- ✅ Help preserve bone and facial structure
- ✅ Don’t affect neighbouring healthy teeth
- ✅ Fixed and stable — no slipping or adhesives
- ✅ With good care, it can last for many years — often decades
Considerations:
- ⚠️ Higher upfront cost than dentures or bridges
- ⚠️ Require sufficient bone and healthy gums (some cases need grafting)
- ⚠️ Healing/integration phase of several months (same-day options may be suitable in select cases)
Cost in the UK (typical ranges):
On average, £2,500–£3,500 per tooth.
Full-arch treatment is quoted individually following assessment.
Explore Dental Implants in Nottingham
Option 2: Dentures
What are dentures?
Dentures are removable prosthetics that sit on top of your gums, replacing multiple missing teeth. They can be partial (replacing some teeth) or full (replacing an entire jaw).
Benefits of dentures:
- ✅ Most affordable solution upfront
- ✅ Suitable for patients with extensive tooth loss
- ✅ Non-invasive (no surgery required)
- ✅ Can be adjusted or remade if oral conditions change
Considerations:
- ⚠️ Can slip, wobble, or rub against gums
- ⚠️ May require adhesives to stay in place
- ⚠️ Do not prevent bone loss (jaw may shrink over time)
- ⚠️ Chewing harder foods can remain difficult
- ⚠️ Need periodic replacement every 5–8 years
Cost in the UK (typical ranges):
Approximately £500–£3,000, depending on whether you need partial or full dentures.
Option 3: Dental Bridges
What are bridges?
A dental bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth using crowns fixed to the natural teeth on either side of the gap.
Benefits of bridges:
- ✅ Fixed in place (not removable like dentures)
- ✅ Lower upfront cost than implants
- ✅ Quick treatment — often completed in a few weeks
- ✅ Restore function and appearance effectively
Considerations:
- ⚠️ Requires drilling down of healthy teeth to act as anchors
- ⚠️ Does not prevent bone loss in the missing tooth area
- ⚠️ May need replacement every 10–15 years
- ⚠️ More difficult to clean under/around than implants or natural teeth
Cost in the UK (typical ranges):
Typically £1,000–£2,500 depending on type and number of teeth replaced.
Quick Comparison: Implants vs Dentures vs Bridges
| Feature | Dental Implants | Dentures | Dental Bridges |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Most natural-looking | Can look natural; stability varies | Natural-looking |
| Comfort | Feels like natural teeth | May slip or rub | Comfortable, fixed |
| Bone Preservation | Yes ✅ | No ❌ | No ❌ |
| Longevity | Often decades with good care* | Typically 5–8 years | Typically 10–15 years |
| Maintenance | Brush & floss like natural teeth | Special cleaning & adhesives | Careful cleaning under/around bridge |
| Cost (UK average) | £2,500–£3,500 per tooth | £500–£3,000 | £1,000–£2,500 |
| Stability | Fixed, secure | Removable | Fixed |
| Typical Treatment Time | Months (healing/integration) | Weeks | Weeks |
*Outcomes vary by patient. Your clinician will advise based on your oral health, habits, and maintenance.
👉 For a full breakdown, see our guide to dental implant costs in the UK.
Learn more about our implant approach or book a consultation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
- Budget: Implants are the most expensive upfront; dentures the lowest cost.
- Health: Bone density, gum condition, and overall health affect suitability.
- Lifestyle: Preference for a fixed solution vs a removable option.
- Long-term value: Implants may reduce replacements and help preserve bone.
- Confidence: Many patients prefer the security of fixed teeth that won’t move.
FAQs
Are implants worth the cost compared to dentures or bridges?
If you’re looking for the closest match to natural teeth and a long-term solution, implants are often the preferred option. Your clinician will advise on suitability and alternatives.
Can I start with dentures and upgrade later?
Yes. Many patients begin with dentures and move to implants later when budget or health allows.
Do bridges damage healthy teeth?
Traditional bridges usually require shaping the neighbouring teeth to act as anchors. This is one reason many patients consider implants when suitable.
Final Thoughts: Which Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
For some, dentures are a practical and affordable choice.
For others, a bridge provides a fixed solution without surgery.
For patients seeking the most natural, stable, and long-lasting result, dental implants are often the best investment.
At The Campbell Clinic, we’ll guide you through every option honestly and help you decide what works best for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
