There are four different options to replace a single missing tooth: a dental implant, a dental bridge, a denture, or leaving the gap.

Dental implants are typically the best option where the jaw bone is suitable, as dental implants will not negatively affect the adjacent teeth and will give maximal chewing function with near perfect appearance.

A dental bridge is made when the adjacent teeth are crowned and the missing tooth is joined to these crowns. By nature, dental bridges are good when the bone will not support a dental implant, however the effect of having crowns on the adjacent teeth in the long-term means extra risk of breaking or damaging these teeth.

Alternatively, a denture can be utilised to replace a missing tooth, and this option is typically used when we need a tooth to replace a gap quickly and only for a short period of time!

You could, of course, leave the gap and not replace your tooth; however, this can result in the movement of other teeth, and the rapid loss of jaw bone shape.

If you have any further questions about what options you have to replace your missing tooth, then why not call our helpful Treatment Coordinators who will be able to discuss your concerns, assess your situation and recommend possible treatment options and costs.