Missing Tooth Replacement
Missing teeth can affect appearance, chewing and speech. The suitable replacement option depends on your oral condition, preferences and treatment needs.
Comparing Dental Implants, Bridges and Dentures
| Dental Implants | Bridges | Dentures | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Pros |
• Fixed • Helps maintain stimulation of the jaw bone • May provide long-term function with appropriate care and maintenance |
• Fixed • Does not require implant surgery |
• Generally lower-cost option • Can replace missing teeth and surrounding tissues |
|
Considerations |
• Bone grafting may be required where there is insufficient bone |
• Requires preparation of supporting teeth • Cleaning beneath the bridge requires particular attention |
• Removable and requires daily insertion, removal and cleaning • Fit may change over time as the mouth and supporting tissues change |
Dental Implants
When this option may be considered
Dental implants may be considered when one or more missing teeth are to be replaced with a fixed option, provided the teeth, gums, bone and general health are suitable.
FAQs
Dental implants are an established treatment option for replacing missing teeth. Suitability and outcomes depend on factors including bone and gum condition, general health, oral hygiene and maintenance.
Appointments and fees
Contact us through WhatsApp to arrange an assessment. The dentist will assess the site and discuss whether implant treatment may be suitable.
See our full treatment price list. The final fee depends on the clinical findings and whether additional procedures are required.
MediSave may be applicable to eligible surgical dental procedures, subject to prevailing CPF rules and individual eligibility. Please check with the clinic for the current requirements and claimable amount for your treatment.
Treatment questions
Dental implants are small titanium fixtures placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or teeth after healing. The restoration placed on top may be a crown, bridge or denture depending on the clinical situation.
Dental implants can function for many years with appropriate care and maintenance, but their longevity varies. Factors such as oral hygiene, gum and bone health, medical conditions, smoking and habits such as grinding can affect long-term outcomes.
Digital implant planning
For suitable cases, digital scans and 3D imaging can be combined to plan implant position and create a surgical guide. Learn more about Computer-Guided Dental Implants, including how this planning approach is used and its limitations.
Bridges
When this option may be considered
A dental bridge may be considered when a fixed, non-removable replacement is preferred and the supporting teeth are suitable for preparation.
FAQs
A conventional dental bridge uses prepared supporting teeth as retainers for a connected replacement tooth. The condition of the supporting teeth, gums and bite must be assessed before treatment. Learn more about crowns and tooth repair.
Appointments and fees
Contact us through WhatsApp to arrange an assessment. The supporting teeth and bite must be assessed before a bridge is recommended.
See our full treatment price list. The total depends on the bridge design, materials and number of teeth involved.
Treatment questions
- The supporting teeth are prepared to create space for the bridge material.
- A digital scan or impression records the prepared teeth for the dental laboratory.
- A temporary bridge may be fitted while the final restoration is being made.
- The final bridge is checked and, if suitable, cemented at a subsequent appointment.
Bridge longevity varies between patients. It is affected by the condition of the supporting teeth, oral hygiene, gum health, bite forces, diet and habits such as grinding. Regular reviews and cleaning beneath the bridge are important.
Dentures
When this option may be considered
Dentures may be considered when several teeth are missing, when a removable option is preferred, or when implant or bridge treatment is unsuitable.
FAQs
Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and, where required, some of the surrounding tissues. Their design and materials depend on the number and position of missing teeth, the supporting tissues and the patient’s needs.
Appointments and fees
Contact us through WhatsApp to arrange an assessment. The dentist will assess the remaining teeth and supporting tissues and discuss suitable denture options.
See our full treatment price list. The fee depends on the denture type, materials and number of teeth being replaced.
Treatment questions
Denture fabrication commonly requires several appointments for assessment, impressions or scans, bite records, fitting checks and delivery. The number and timing of visits depend on the denture design and clinical situation.
Denture lifespan varies. Fit and function can change as the supporting gums and jawbone change over time. Wear, oral hygiene, materials and handling also affect longevity, so periodic review, adjustment, relining or replacement may be required.
