Teeth Replacement

Lost teeth need to be replaced, or the results can be severe. Chewing and general health can be affected. The appearance of the front teeth and the smile can deteriorate. Teeth adjacent to spaces may drift and tilt into them. Teeth in the opposite jaw, over the space, can grow longer because there is no opposite tooth to bite against, and keep it in place. The bite can be affected, and the front teeth can be forced forward.

The methods of replacing teeth are determined by the position of the gap, its size and the presence or absence of adjoining teeth. The procedures to be described are bridges, dentures and implants.

• A bridge is permanently fixed to the teeth on either side of a gap.
• A removable denture, either partial or full, is a common way to replace teeth.
• An implant into the jawbone can support a crown, bridge or denture.