Options for Missing Teeth

Missing teeth are nothing to smile about. There are many reasons for missing teeth, such as gum disease, injury or cavities. No matter the reason, missing teeth can create many emotional and health problems, such as embarrassment, speech problems, teeth shifting and difficulty chewing. Thankfully, individuals don't have to live with the problems that result from missing teeth. In fact, there are a variety of options available to fix missing teeth.

Replacing Missing Teeth with a Bridge

• Dental bridges are typically for replacing one or more missing teeth. Bridges are prosthetic devices that aren't removable. They are permanently fixed onto the natural or implanted teeth. A dentist trims the teeth surrounding the missing tooth or teeth. An impression or mold is made of the area before the bridge is constructed. Typically, the bridge is made of gold and porcelain. The bridge is cemented onto the trimmed-down natural teeth, referred to as abutments, on each side of the missing teeth. In approximately four weeks individuals can have teeth attached to the bridge. The teeth match the color of their natural teeth.

Using a Partial Denture

• A partial denture is also an option to replace missing teeth. The partial dentures resemble a full set of dentures that people use when all their teeth are missing. However, what makes it a partial denture is that it just replaces the teeth (in the same area) that are missing. Unlike a dental bridge, the partial denture is a removable prosthesis rather than a fixed one. The denture is created by using a metal framework with a flesh-colored acrylic base that fits over it. On top of the acrylic base of the partial denture are natural looking teeth. In some cases there are crowns that fit over each side of the natural teeth---like with the dental bridges---that anchor the partial dentures. Metal clasps, which are visible, keep the partial denture in place.

Restoring Missing Teeth with an Implant

• A dental implant is another option to replace missing teeth. The implant requires surgery because a dentist must place an approximately one and a half centimeter rod made of titanium into the jawbone. The rods act as the roots for the replacement teeth. Once the dental implant fusions with the jawbone, the dentist attaches crowns to the implant, replacing the missing teeth. Since oral surgery is involved, restoring missing teeth with a dental implant can take approximately nine months to complete, according to the Dental Comfort Zone.