What are the options for replacing a missing tooth?

A missing tooth can is not just a blow to your confidence. When a tooth is missing, your bite is altered and it can lead to issues with your jaw further down the line. Thankfully, there are plenty of solutions for a missing tooth.

The best solution for you will likely depend on your budget and the cause of the missing tooth. The location of the tooth will also be a key factor. And finally, if you’re looking for a temporary or permanent solution.

A dentist will rarely be able to save a tooth if it is knocked out. Losing a tooth due to trauma to the face can be very traumatic to the surrounding bone and tissue. You would need to preserve the tooth and then visit your dentist within an hour to have any chance of saving it. In many cases, you would need to think about alternative methods for replacing your missing tooth.

If you have lost a tooth due to tooth decay or gum disease, you will need to ensure this condition is brought under control. This will help to ensure you don’t lose any more teeth and allow you to focus on the restoration.

If you’re struggling with missing teeth, these are your main options for restoration.

Bridge and crown

A bridge works by attaching a crown to the adjacent teeth. This can be effective for both front and rear teeth. This is a semi-permanent solution that may need to be replaced or reattached further down the line. The bridge will be fixed in your mouth, which means you won’t be able to remove it to care for your teeth.

Advantages

● Looks and feels natural

● A fixed solution so you can care for your teeth as normal

● Mid-cost treatment

● Accessible treatment offered by many dental clinics

Disadvantages

● Requires preparation of the surrounding teeth

● Bite is distributed to surrounding teeth, not the jaw

● May need to be replaced

Denture

A partial denture is made up of a replacement tooth which attaches to surrounding teeth using small metal clips. A denture can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. It’s a low-cost and non-invasive procedure. And if you care for your denture and follow your dentist’s, it should last for several years.

Advantages

● Looks natural

● Can be removed for cleaning

● Most cost-effective solution

● No surgery or invasive dental procedures required

Disadvantages

● Can feel unnatural

● Denture can move around or fall out

● Not a permanent solution

Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium screws that are inserted in your jawbone. The jaw heals around the implant and creates a strong anchor for an artificial tooth. The result is a tooth that looks and feels like a natural tooth. You brush and floss as you would with your natural teeth. With the right care, your dental implant could last for more than 25 years.

Advantages

● Looks and feels like a real tooth

● A long-lasting solution to missing teeth

● Easy to care for your dental implant

● Maintains your jaw bone

Disadvantages

● Invasive surgical procedure that takes place over multiple visits

● Most expensive option for a missing tooth

● Not suitable for all patients

Which solution is right for me?

When you decide to replace a missing tooth, you will need to think about several factors. The location of the tooth is often the most important factor to consider. If you are missing one of your rear teeth, you might be less inclined to seek a replacement than if you are missing a front tooth.

You could also consider a combination of treatments. For example, if you are missing a front tooth, you might have a temporary bridge or denture fitted while you decide what you want to do in the long-term. Further down the line, you might decide you want to replace a semi-permanent solution like a bridge with a permanent solution like a dental implant.

If you’re unsure about your options for replacing a missing tooth, speak to your dentist to find out more. They will be able to guide you through the options available to you and help you to choose the solution that is most suitable for your lifestyle and requirements. Get in touch today to book your appointment.

Bhandal Dental Practice (Coventry)

298A-C, Foleshill Rd, Coventry CV6 5AH
02476686690