Replacing a missing tooth is not only about appearance. A gap can make chewing harder, cause the teeth either side to tip into the space, and lead to bone loss in the jaw over time. There are three main options.
Dental implants
A titanium post is placed in the jawbone and a crown is fixed on top once it has healed.
Pros:
looks, feels and works most like a natural tooth
does not involve the neighbouring teeth
helps preserve the jawbone
can last many years with good care
Cons:
the highest upfront cost of the three
involves minor surgery
takes several months from start to finish
needs enough healthy bone, or a bone graft first
Bridges
A false tooth is held in place by being attached to the teeth on either side of the gap.
Pros:
fixed in place, so nothing to take out
quicker than an implant, usually two or three appointments
no surgery
Cons:
the teeth either side usually need to be shaped, which removes healthy tooth
the supporting teeth have to be strong enough
does not prevent bone loss under the false tooth
needs careful cleaning underneath
Dentures
A removable plate with one or more false teeth. Partial dentures replace some teeth, full dentures replace them all.
Pros:
the lowest cost option
can replace many teeth at once
no surgery and nothing done to other teeth
Cons:
removable, and can move when eating or talking
takes time to get used to
may need relining or replacing as the jaw changes shape
does not prevent bone loss
Dentures at Sweetsmile start from £540 per arch. Implants can also be used to hold a denture firmly in place, which combines some of the benefits of both.
Which is right for you?
It depends on your remaining teeth, your gums and bone, your health and your budget. The best starting point is an examination, where we can look at the gap and talk you through what is realistic.
We offer a free implant consultation. See our dental implants and restorative dentistry pages, or call 020 8203 1599.