There are many reasons why you might lose teeth over the years. It could be a result of gum disease, severe tooth decay, or an accident or injury. Having a missing front tooth can negatively impact confidence and dramatically lower your self-esteem.
Aside from the obvious cosmetic reasons, leaving a missing tooth untreated can also cause a variety of problems to your oral health. Therefore, it’s a good idea to do something about it.
What are the types of dental solutions for missing front tooth?
There are several options available if you have a missing front tooth or several missing teeth. The main missing tooth replacement options we offer are:
Here at Aurora Dental, you can speak to one of our experts to help you decide which treatment is right for you.
Dental implants
One of the most common types of replacements for a missing front tooth is dental implants. Implants can blend perfectly with your natural teeth while remaining robust and durable. Dental implants are a highly reliable type of replacement, that will both look and feel like a real tooth.
How are dental implants fitted?
Before carrying out the treatment, one of our experienced team will assess whether you’re suitable to go ahead with it. If so, you’ll undergo a procedure that will allow your dentist to secure the implant to your jawbone. Once your implant has healed, you’ll be prepared for your final appointment, typically taking 3-6 months. At this stage, we will fit a crown.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants can last several decades and are one of the most effective options for missing teeth. The dental implant supports the surrounding bone and doesn’t involve your neighbouring teeth, meaning they remain intact. As implants are such an effective treatment, however, they can be more expensive than other options.
Dentures
Dentures have been around for centuries, and are still a popular choice for those who have missing teeth. They serve as removable replacement teeth, preserving your ability to speak, chew, and restore your smile effectively.
There are two types of dentures available: partial and full. Full dentures will replace a full set of upper or lower teeth (or both), while partial dentures will replace just a small number of missing teeth.
How Are Dentures Fitted?
Your dentist will take a mould or scan of your gums along with various measurements. Next, we’ll send it to a dental technician who will create your custom dentures. Dentures can wear down over time, but with the appropriate care, they could last between 5 and 7 years before the need for replacement.
What are the benefits of dentures?
Dentures are easy to repair and replace if needed. They are also a cost-friendly option. However, if you’re wearing dentures, you need to make sure you’re visiting your dentist regularly. The shape of the denture will fit your gum exactly, but your gum will change shape over time as you naturally age.
Implant retained dentures
Unlike traditional dentures, implant-retained dentures are surgically fixed in place. This makes them a more long-lasting and robust option, as they offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. They will also improve your ability to chew without the worry of dentures sliding out of place.
How are implant retained dentures fitted?
One of our trained specialists will evaluate your jawbone’s adequacy for implant-retained dentures. If the jawbone is too soft, or not thick enough, it’ll be unable to support the dental implants necessary to hold your dentures. If you qualify, you’ll undergo a brief procedure to secure a series of implants within your jawbone. Once healed, your dentist will take a scan of your mouth in order to make your bespoke dentures.
What are the benefits of implant retained dentures?
Implant retained dentures are a cost-effective and hassle-free option. Proper care can extend the lifespan of your implants, potentially lasting for decades without replacement. During the healing phase and until your dentures are securely fitted, we recommend avoiding hard or chewy foods.
Dental bridge
Bridges involve anchoring dental prosthetics to any remaining healthy teeth. Unlike dentures, bridges are not removable. Dental bridges vary in style, and your dentist will advise the best option for you. Bridges will need replacements periodically, with most lasting between 5-15 years.
How are dental bridges fitted?
If you have one or two missing teeth, your dentist may recommend a traditional fixed bridge, where crowns securely bond to healthy teeth on both sides of the gap, providing support for the bridge. Alternatively, if you have just one healthy tooth next to the gap, a cantilever bridge could be the solution, as it involves fitting a single crown to a healthy tooth. The final option is a bonded bridge, which is similar to a traditional bridge, however, instead of crowns, a bonded bridge uses metal or porcelain wings.
What are the benefits of a dental bridge?
Dental bridges can be highly aesthetic, helping improve your confidence and transform your smile. However, a dental bridge may require filing down healthy teeth on either side of the missing one.
Finding the best missing tooth replacement for you
We’ve discussed the dental solutions for missing teeth, as well as the advantages surrounding each treatment. You can speak to one of our team to discuss which option would be the best one for you.
Book your appointment today, or stop by for a chat. We have clinics across Wiltshire, with locations in Chippenham, Corsham, Swindon and Devizes.
We understand that attending the dentist can be a stressful experience for some people, but our highly trained staff will ensure you feel relaxed and comfortable during your visit. Alongside our missing tooth replacement services, we also offer a range of other treatments to help you look and feel your best, including teeth whitening, smile makeovers, and veneers.