Missing a tooth – or several – can affect more than just your smile. It can impact your confidence, how you eat, and even your long-term oral health. The good news is, there are several effective ways to replace missing teeth, each with its own benefits and considerations.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through four common options for replacing missing teeth, along with the pros and cons of each:
- Option 1: Dental Implants – The Closest Thing to Real Teeth
- Option 2: Dentures – A Tried-and-Trusted Solution
- Option 3: Dental Bridges – A Cost-Effective Fix for Larger Gaps
- Option 4: Do Nothing – But Know the Risks
Read on to find out which solution might be right for you.
Option 1: Dental Implants – the closest thing to real teeth
Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they look, feel, and function just like natural teeth – and they’re built to last.
What are dental implants?
Dental implants are a long-term solution and involve a procedure in which a small post (usually made of titanium), is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time to form a strong, stable foundation. Once healed, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is attached, creating a tooth replacement that will give confidence to your smile.
Benefits of dental implants:
- Eat, drink, and smile with total confidence – no restrictions.
- Restore your natural appearance by filling gaps and supporting facial structure.
- Enjoy your favorite foods again – yes, even steak and corn on the cob!
- Implants help preserve jawbone health and prevent bone loss.
- Implants don’t rely on neighboring teeth for support, helping to protect your remaining natural teeth.
- Ideal for securing bridges or dentures, improving their stability and comfort.
- With correct care, dental implants can last decades – making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
Considerations:
- They’re more expensive upfront, but their longevity often makes them a smart long-term investment.
- The procedure involves surgery, but it’s typically straightforward and pain-free. (Read our blog: “Dental Implants – Nothing to Be Scared Of” for more details.)
Option 2: Dentures – a tried-and-tested solution
Dentures have been a reliable and popular choice for replacing missing teeth for generations. Thanks to modern materials and techniques, today’s dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before.
What are dentures?
Dentures are custom-made dental appliances designed to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Complete dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures fill gaps left by one or more missing teeth.
Benefits of dentures:
- A cost-effective solution for missing teeth.
- Restore the look of a full, healthy smile.
- Help prevent remaining teeth from shifting into the gap left by missing teeth, reducing the risk of bite problems and misalignment.
Considerations:
- Dentures are removable, which means they require daily care and occasional adjustments.
- You may need to be cautious with certain foods, especially hard or sticky items.
- Regular cleaning is essential to maintain hygiene and comfort.
- Getting high-quality, well-fitting dentures is key – ill-fitting dentures can cause discomfort and even contribute to gum issues. (Learn more in our blog: “Why Choose Dentures at 543”.)
Option 3: Dental Bridges – a cost-effective fix for large gaps
Dental bridges offer a secure, natural-looking solution to fill larger gaps or multiple missing teeth.
What are dental bridges?
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic that fills the space left by missing teeth. It’s anchored in place by crowns on the adjacent healthy teeth (or implants), literally “bridging” the gap in your smile.
Benefits of dental bridges:
- Unlike removable dentures, bridges are fixed in place and don’t require adhesive.
- Clean them just like natural teeth – no need to remove or soak.
- Typically completed in just two appointments.
- Generally, more affordable upfront than implants.
- Especially practical for replacing several teeth in a row.
- Ideal for patients without sufficient jawbone for implants.
Considerations:
- Bridges typically last 5–10 years with good care, which isn’t as long as implants.
- Requires reshaping healthy teeth to support the crowns.
- Good oral hygiene is essential to protect the supporting teeth, as they are at higher risk of decay.
Option 4: Do nothing – but know the risks
In some cases, especially when the missing tooth isn’t highly visible, people choose to leave gaps untreated. While this might seem like the simplest option, it’s important to understand the potential long-term consequences before deciding.
Benefits of doing nothing:
- No cost.
- No time spent on treatment or recovery.
Considerations:
- Without a tooth, the jawbone in that area begins to shrink, which can cause gum recession and make adjacent teeth appear longer.
- Neighbouring teeth may drift into the gap, leading to misalignment and bite issues.
- Teeth from the opposite jaw can drift downward or upward into the space, affecting your bite.
- If you later decide on a dental implant, bone loss could make the procedure more complex.
- Untreated gaps can lead to larger dental issues over time, potentially making this the most costly option in the long run.
Which Option Is Right for You?
If you’re still unsure after weighing up the pros and cons, we’re here to help. Book a consultation with one of our experienced, highly skilled dental professionals. We’ll take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and guide you towards the best treatment for your mouth, lifestyle, and budget.
Replace Missing Teeth in Hull
At 543 Dental & Implant Centre in Hull, we offer a full range of tooth replacement options tailored to you. Our dedicated Treatment Coordinator, Sara, is on hand to talk you through the process – simply call or text her on 07772 640585. You can also reach our friendly reception team on 01482 565488 to book an appointment.
