Options to Replace Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can be replaced with implants, dentures or bridgework. Great results can be achieved by combing the latest advanced materials and gum management techniques to make replacement teeth appear to emerge from the gum like a natural tooth.

Replacing missing teeth can radically improve a person’s smile and the shape of their face. As well as boosting self-esteem, there are important health benefits too. Having gaps where teeth are missing affects the way the rest of the teeth bite together. The remaining teeth may tilt and drift into the gaps, and food can be trapped in the spaces, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.

The quickest and easiest way to replace a single missing tooth is with a denture. This requires a simple impression of the mouth and the denture is usually ready in 1-2 visits.

A bridge is a false tooth that is attached permanently to the natural adjacent teeth. The false tooth can be cemented by a metal attachment to the next tooth or it may need to be attached to one or more crowns.

The most successful way to treat a missing tooth is with a dental implant. As long as patients look after their gums and attend the dentist and hygienist for regular check-ups, implants should be trouble free.

One of the biggest problems occurs when a patient loses multiple or all of their teeth. This can be very difficult to treat on the lower jaw especially, because the bone shrinks and offers little support for a traditional denture.

Fortunately, nowadays there are many solutions available. Implants can be used to lock a denture in position to provide great support. This prevents the denture from moving, especially when eating. Alternatively, we can use more implants to support a bridge, which stays permanently in the mouth and functions like natural teeth.