If you have a gap in your smile and want to know how to fix a missing tooth then the good news is that you have several options available. In this post, we’ll explain those options in detail especially dental crowns and discuss what you can expect.
Option 1 – A dental bridge
When it comes to replacing missing teeth or a single tooth, a dental bridge provides a sound and proven replacement option. In fact, dental bridges have been around in some form or another for thousands of years and are still very popular choices today.
So what is a dental bridge exactly?
The idea behind a dental bridge is a simple one. The teeth on either side of the gap are used to support the framework which in turn supports the pontic tooth. The pontic tooth ‘bridges’ the gap to restore a smile.
The benefits of a conventional dental bridge complete with dental crowns are that they provide a non-invasive, non-surgical tooth replacement option that can be completed in just 2-3 dental visits. It is cost-effective when compared to other missing tooth replacement options and is carried out by practically every dentist, so you shouldn’t have to look too far to find a good dentist who can fit a dental bridge.
The primary disadvantage of a dental bridge is that because the teeth adjacent to the gap are used as a support structure for the pontic tooth, they need to be reformed or reshaped to take the supporting framework. Even though they are topped with dental crowns for protection, it can mean that healthy teeth are now compromised.
Option 2 – A partial denture
If you have several missing teeth it is possible when replacing missing teeth to also use a partial denture. A partial denture consists of a plate containing one or more replacement teeth (dental crowns). This can be made from plastic or a cobalt-chromium alloy and contains a series of clips or clasps that help to keep the appliance in place in the mouth. All bases irrespective of material are gum coloured to give a natural appearance and the teeth (dental crowns) are made to look as natural as possible blending in with your existing smile.
Like option 1, the advantages of partial dentures are that they provide a non-surgical way of restoring a smile in just 2-3 dental visits. And like dental bridges, they provide a cost-effective solution in respect to more invasive ways of replacing missing teeth. Also, just like dental bridges, dentures have been around in one form or another for thousands of years and remain a popular choice even today.
One of the disadvantages of partial dentures is that they can impact nearby teeth but also, they can take some getting used to with regards to chewing and talking and unfortunately, some people never get used to them and they can become a constant source of problems.
Option 3 – A dental implant topped with a dental crown
Although dental implants have been around for over 50 years, they are perceived as a modern way to fix a missing tooth and compared to conventional dentures and bridges which have existed for hundreds if not thousands of years, then perhaps they are. Whatever your thoughts, however, most dental professionals consider implant-based restorations as the gold standard of replacing missing teeth. But what is a dental implant exactly?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root designed to be ‘implanted’ into the jaw at the missing tooth site. Once fully stabilised, it becomes part of the structure of the mouth and can be used to support a dental crown, a dental bridge or act as part of several strategically placed dental implants supporting an entire arch of teeth
Unlike other forms of tooth replacement, a dental implant procedure does require a short bout of surgery and the process as a whole is carried out over a number of months rather than weeks. So if you are looking to fix a missing tooth fast, a dental implant may not be the option for you.
That said, an implant-based restoration has so many benefits that the other options don’t. For example…
- They provide a standalone replacement – once a dental implant is placed, it doesn’t rely on the support of other teeth. Instead, it’s simply topped with a dental crown for a long-lasting, natural-looking finish. As a result, no other teeth will be reshaped or used as support in this process.
- Implants provide a fully-restored smile without compromise – Once fitted with a dental crown an implant can restore full bite function meaning that patients can eat whatever they like without compromise. Unfortunately, the same can’t be said for those wearing dental bridges or partial dentures. Often bite ability is greatly reduced to somewhere between 30% and 40%. So even with contemporary dental crowns, dietary changes may need to be made
- Implants halt bone loss – When teeth are missing it triggers the natural process of bone loss. As a result, the jaw can lose around 25% of its density in the first year. Because dentures and dental bridges are supported by other teeth or sit on the gum line, bone loss will continue. A dental implant, on the other hand, is designed to act as an artificial tooth root, thus it re-stimulates the bone and prevents it from being reabsorbed back into the body.
- Implants are lifelike and natural-looking – Once an implant has been topped with a dental crown, it blends in with your existing smile and looks just like it’s always been there. While conventional dental bridges also utilise lifelike dental crowns, they can be prone to occasional movement.
How to fix a missing tooth – the summary
While dental bridges and partial dentures remain a popular choice for fixing a missing tooth they are not a long-term solution often needing replacement after 7-10 years of wear. Whereas, while the dental crowns may need replacing from time to time, there is no reason why the dental implants themselves can’t last a lifetime. As such implants and their corresponding dental crowns, provide a solid, long-term, investment that can and do change lives.
To find out about your options to fix a missing tooth then talk to No Gaps Dental. With 15 locations based around the Sydney Metro area, we provide convenience and value for money without compromising on quality. Call us on (02) 8806 0227 or book a consultation online.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.