Dental implants can be a long-term solution for missing or damaged teeth. But if the cost of implant dentures, implant-supported bridges, or single tooth implant restorations is out of your budget, don’t worry – there are other options out there. These alternatives to dental implant treatment each have pros and cons you’ll want to think about as you compare options. Chat with your dental team to figure out the best solution for your smile and budget.
1. Dental bridges
There are several types of dental bridges your dentist may recommend depending on how many teeth you need to have replaced and where those teeth are located in the mouth.
Traditional fixed dental bridges
A fixed dental bridge uses a replacement tooth called a pontic, which is anchored by natural teeth on either side of the gap, known as abutment teeth. Your dentist will create a bridge that contains the pontic in the middle with crowns on either side that cover the abutment teeth.
The crowns are adhered to surrounding teeth using special dental cement so that the bridge stays in place. Depending on the materials used and oral health, a traditional fixed dental bridge can last from 5 to 15 years.1
Cantilever bridges
A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but it only attaches with a dental crown on one side instead of two. This may be an option to consider if you only have one healthy tooth surrounding your missing tooth to support the bridge.
Maryland bridges
A Maryland bridge leverages existing natural teeth to secure the pontic. It uses small wings on either side of the pontic that adhere to the back side of existing teeth, which creates a seamless aesthetic from the front. This solution is non-invasive and tends to be affordable for many patients since it requires only the creation of the pontic and not dental crowns.
Pros of dental bridges
- Fastened in place so they may feel more like natural teeth
- Affordable when compared to dental implants
- Non-invasive, so you won’t need to undergo surgery
- The end-to-end process takes weeks instead of months since no healing is required
Cons of dental bridges
- Bridges don’t lessen the risk of jawbone loss, as dental implants may
- It could put extra stress on surrounding teeth
- Shorter-term solution that could need replacement every 5 to 15 years
Cost: Prices vary depending on materials used and the type of bridge, but estimates place the cost of a dental bridge between $2,000 and over $5,000 for the three types outlined above.2 Speak with your dentist to figure out an exact price.
2. Full or partial removable dentures
Dentures that you can take in and out may be the most cost-effective alternative to dental implants. They’re a non-surgical solution that only requires dental impressions to create. You can get a set of full dentures to replace both rows of missing teeth or a partial denture that attaches to existing teeth and fills only the gaps where several teeth are gone. Over time, dentures may require adjustments, maintenance, or even full replacement.
Pros
- Lower cost than implants
- Easy to replace or repair as needed
- Non-surgical option
Cons
- Can shift around while speaking or eating if not secured properly
- Don’t stimulate the jawbone to promote bone growth
Cost: Partial dentures generally cost around $2,000 or less, with prices fluctuating based on the materials used to create them.3
3. Dental crowns
If your tooth is damaged instead of missing, a dental crown, or tooth cap, is an implant alternative that’s fitted to go on top of the existing natural tooth. A crown is often a quick and affordable procedure. Like any dental treatment, though, crowns come with their own set of pros and cons, so it’s worth considering whether they’re the right fit for you.
Pros
- Can protect a tooth from further damage
- Crowns are available in a variety of durable materials
- Can last for a decade or more with proper care and maintenance
Cons
- Can permanently alter the shape of the natural tooth since it must be shaved down to fit the crown
- May be pricier than other alternatives for a single tooth
Cost: Depending on the material used, dental crowns can cost up to $2,500 for a single tooth.4
The bottom line
Dental implants are one of many treatment options to replace missing teeth. While they can be the most durable and long-lasting solution available, you may also want to explore using a dental bridge or removable denture that better meets your desired aesthetic and budget. Your dental team is the best resource to discuss available options and find the right fit for your mouth.
Sources:
1 Cleveland Clinic – Dental Bridges
2 GoodRx Health – How Much Does a Dental Bridge Cost?
3 GoodRx Health – How Much Do Dentures Cost?
4 GoodRx Health – How Much Does a Dental Crown Cost? Average Prices With and Without Insurance