To make an informed decision, you need clear facts. The table below compares the three main options according to the criteria our patients ask about most often — without glossing anything over:
| Criterion | Dental Implant | Dental Bridge | Denture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longevity | 15–30+ years | 10–15 years | 5–10 years |
| Bone preservation | Yes — implant stimulates the bone | No — bone resorption in the gap | Accelerates resorption |
| Adjacent teeth | Left untouched | Must be ground down | Clasps place load on anchor teeth |
| Aesthetics | Excellent — indistinguishable from a natural tooth | Good | Visibly a prosthetic replacement |
| Chewing sensation | Natural — full chewing function | Good | Restricted |
| Maintenance | Like your own teeth — brush + interdental brush | Superfloss required under the bridge | Remove and clean separately |
| Treatment duration | 3–6 months (including osseointegration) | 2–3 weeks | 2–4 weeks |
| Cost | €1,800–3,500 | €800–2,500 | €500–1,500 |
What this table shows: implants lead in virtually every qualitative criterion — longevity, bone preservation, aesthetics, chewing sensation. They are the only tooth replacement that truly replicates the natural tooth because they take over the same biomechanical function: transferring chewing forces into the jawbone, thereby preventing bone resorption.
However: implants are not always the right answer. If a neighboring tooth already requires extensive treatment, a bridge may be the more sensible choice. If a patient is not a candidate for implants due to underlying health conditions or insufficient bone volume, a high-quality denture still offers very good options. And for those with a limited budget, a bridge represents a very reasonable compromise.
The table is a starting point — your personal situation is what decides. At the initial consultation we will work out together which path makes the most sense for you.





