5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth
Missing Tooth Replacement Options
Missing tooth must be replaced, else the other teeth around the space and the tooth in the opposing jaw starts collapsing in the space. This affects all other teeth. The bone where a tooth is lost, it resorps and goes down, later neither implant nor a denture would be feasible. Hence taking an action is always advisable.
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Missing Tooth Replacement – Removable Partial Denture
It can be very embarrassing when missing front teeth. A removable partial denture, which is worn during the day, can replace one or many missing teeth. Sometimes a partial denture may need metal clasps to help it stay in the mouth. Unfortunately, these metal clasps may be visible when speaking or smiling. Another disadvantage of a removable partial denture is that they can move a little when speaking or eating, which can be uncomfortable. We recommend taking them out at night and soaking them in a cleaning solution. With a partial denture there is no need to file down any teeth, and this option is the most economical. A full denture can replace all missing teeth.
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Missing Tooth Replacement – Temporary Denture
A temporary denture is a short term solution for a missing tooth. We call it a “flipper” because it flips in and out easily. This is used when the tooth will be restored in the future with a bridge or an implant, but we are waiting for the site to heal. These are much like a removable partial denture, but usually less sturdy, less bulky, and less expensive. We do not alter surrounding teeth when we make a flipper.
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Missing Tooth Replacement – Bridge
A bridge is an option when there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth. A bridge is a fixed solution that stays cemented in the mouth and does not come out.
This method involves cutting down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to be able to connect them together. We recommend floss threaders, which slide under the bridge, to keep it clean. The disadvantages for bridges are cutting down teeth that might be perfectly healthy, and sometimes bridges in the lower jaw do not last as long since the jaw flexes and the unbendable bridge can spring a leak on one side or the other that allows for decay or bacteria to seep in. Sometimes the teeth next to the gap need a filling or a crown and this method can kill two birds with one stone; filling the gap and fixing the adjacent tooth at the same time. A bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily, and sometimes more if there is enough support.
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Best Replacement Option – Dental Implant
An implant is a great way to replace a missing tooth. This solution feels and acts the most like a natural tooth when chewing, brushing or smiling. The implant replaces the actual root of the missing tooth and heals in the bone for several months. We then place an abutment, to which a crown will be cemented. A major advantage is no need to alter any other teeth when placing an implant. An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth, and even more implants can replace many missing teeth. When smiling or talking there is no way to tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.
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Do Nothing for Missing Tooth Replacement
One of the worst ways to replace a missing tooth. There is always the option to do nothing. When a tooth is removed, the bone melts away and the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap. This can sometimes create a difficult place to clean and lead to other problems like bone loss or decay around the existing teeth.
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Dr. Jyoti Singh (MDS), Diplomate WICO (Japan region) stands as a beacon of excellence in implantology within Delhi NCR region. She is a BDS and MDS(Prostho) both from Maulana Azad Institute of Dental Sciences, where she secured top honors with all India rank 1 in PG entrance examination. Her extensive experience at esteemed institutions like Clove Dental and her own Center for Dental Implants & Esthetics since 2016, Dr. Singh embodies unparalleled expertise in dental implants. Boasting a wealth of 16 years in dentistry and backed by 18 groundbreaking research papers in leading international journals (Google Scholar) and her ResearchGate profile, she epitomizes the pinnacle of proficiency and innovation in her field. She practices in Gurugram as your friendly dentist near me.