Replacement of Missing Teeth
Fixed Bridge
Teeth can be replaced with a fixed bridge when adjacent teeth are strong enough to support it. The neighboring teeth are reduced in size to place crowns, which hold the artificial tooth in position, restoring both function and appearance.
However, this procedure is irreversible and may weaken the supporting teeth, sometimes leading to the need for root canal treatment. Fixed bridges typically last 10–12 years and may require replacement over time due to wear or further dental issues.
Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain the longevity of the bridge and the health of the supporting teeth.
Dentures
Removable partial or full dentures can replace a single missing tooth, several teeth, or all of the teeth in your upper and/or lower jaw. Dentures rely on support by the other teeth in that jaw (for partial dentures) and from mechanical support by the remaining ridge of gum and underlying bone. Maxillary (upper jaw) full dentures also may be helped by suction between the denture and the underlying gum of your palate (roof of mouth).
Reasons for replacing a missing tooth (or teeth) vary and should be weighed against the risks of leaving the space, as well as resultant changes that may take place in the rest of your dentition.
