Options to Replace a Missing Tooth

Teeth are commonly removed when they are too damaged or they pose a risk to healthy surrounding teeth. Removing the tooth will give you a chance to restore your smile and focus on the future. Thankfully, there are plenty of options available to replace a missing tooth.

In this guide, we’re looking at the most common reasons you might lose a tooth and why it’s important to replace it. We’ll also explore some of the most common methods for replacing a missing tooth so you can make an informed choice about your oral health.

Top reasons for losing a tooth

The most common reason for losing a tooth would be damage or decay. When a tooth is badly damaged, it could leave the sensitive root exposed, which will be very painful. A badly decayed tooth might be able to be saved with a root canal treatment, but in some cases, the tooth will be too badly damaged.

You might also lose a tooth following an accident, or your dentist might recommend an extraction to address overcrowding. Your wisdom teeth might also be removed if they are not emerging correctly, or if there is no space for them to emerge.

Why is it important to replace the tooth?

Leaving a gap in your smile is generally not recommended, unless the tooth was removed to address overcrowding. A gap in your smile could impact your bite in the long term, making it more difficult for you to chew your food effectively.

In the long-term, the section of jaw bone that supported the tooth will eventually recede and shrink, which can have an impact on facial symmetry.

It can also have a huge impact on your confidence, particularly if the gap is visible when you smile. It could also impact your speech, which can have a big impact on confidence levels.

The first priority of your dentist would be to restore and save the original tooth, but if this isn’t possible, the next priority will be to replace the tooth.

Treatment options for a missing tooth

Not sure about what options are available to you? Thankfully, there are lots of options for different budgets. Some restorations can be completed in just a few visits, while others will take months to complete. It’s important to consider all of your options to ensure you reach the right solution for your needs.

If you are motivated primarily by budget, remember that interest-free credit is available on most treatment plans, so you could spread the cost to make it more affordable. This will allow you to choose a treatment based on requirements, not your budget.

Leave the gap

If the tooth that has been extracted is at the back of your mouth and does not affect your bite, it may be possible to leave the gap. This is particularly true for wisdom teeth, which do not need to be restored. 

The dentist will need to keep a close eye on the teeth surrounding the gap to ensure that they do not twist and move into the space, as this can cause discomfort.

You may also find that you get problems with food becoming stuck in the gap and if left this can lead to decay in the surrounding teeth.

If the gap is closer to the front of your mouth and you have overcrowding, your dentist might recommend orthodontics to help move the remaining teeth closer together and close the gap.

Dentures

Dentures can provide a good solution if you are missing several teeth. Dentures can be fitted immediately following an extraction so there is no need to be seen with a missing tooth. 

Dentures are made of either acrylic or metal and can be fastened to your natural teeth using small clasps. Dentures can take some time to get used to and it may take some time before you can eat and talk with confidence. 

After a time the dentures may need to be relined or remade as your gums shrink and the socket heals to ensure that they continue to fit well.

Bridge

A bridge is made by placing crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap and joining them together with a false tooth or teeth. Bridges are fixed onto your existing teeth using a strong adhesive and cannot be removed. 

Bridges are made of all white ceramic materials so will closely match the natural colour of your teeth. It is necessary that the teeth on either side of the missing teeth or tooth are healthy as they will be supporting the false teeth.

Implants

A dental implant can be used to support one or several false teeth. A titanium screw is placed into the jaw and this is used to support either a crown, bridge or denture. Implants are a safe and well-established treatment and if cared for appropriately should last 10 years.

A full assessment will be carried out prior to treatment to ensure that there is enough bone present to support an implant, if there is not it may be necessary to perform a bone graft before implant placement can be considered.

Once the implant has been placed it is necessary to wait 3 to 4 months before the final restoration can be fitted, in order to give the bone time to heal around the screw.

Making the right decision for you

If you’re struggling with your choice, book an appointment with your dentist. During this consultation, you can ask questions about the treatment plans, the long-term care and the cost. This can help you to find the right tooth replacement solution for your needs.

You don’t have to rush your decision following an extraction. Most treatments will require you to wait until the bone and gum is completely healed before moving forward with treatment. Your dentist will advise you on how soon you can get started with your restoration.

Final thoughts on missing tooth replacement

If you have any questions or would like more help and advice on your options to replace a missing tooth do not hesitate to call Leigh Dental Centre today on 01702 472929 and book a consultation.

We can guide you through the process of choosing the right restoration option for your needs.