How Can I Replace One Missing Tooth?

Did you lose a tooth in an accident or due to an oral health condition? A gap in your teeth can be unsettling for many people. Not only can it change the appearance of your smile, but it can also affect other oral functions like speech and eating. The good news is there are options to replace a missing tooth to restore the beauty and function of your smile. Here are a few dental restoration options we offer at Restore Dental for replacing a single missing tooth.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge uses a prosthetic tooth to fill in the gap and restore your smile. This is a good option for those who have lost a missing tooth that is noticeable when you open your mouth or smile. A dental bridge uses your adjoining teeth to support the prosthetic tooth.

For example, if you have an incisor missing, the teeth on either side of the missing tooth will be prepared for a dental crown. We will take impressions of the two existing teeth and create a “mold” of the missing tooth. The dental bridge will have a newly formed prosthetic tooth attached to dental crowns that go over the adjacent teeth. The result is a new tooth fixed in place that looks and functions naturally.

Dental Implant

The most natural appearing and functioning dental restoration available is a dental implant. Like your natural tooth, a dental implant is attached to your jawbone. A titanium post is surgically inserted into your jawbone where your tooth root once was located. The post is designed to adhere to the bone, becoming permanently connected. Once it is healed, a permanent dental crown can be placed on the abutment on top of the dental implant. This new tooth looks and feels natural – in many cases, a dental implant can last the rest of a patient’s lifetime.

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are another option for replacing teeth, but usually they are used for multiple missing teeth. These removeable appliances use the existing teeth for support with a metal fitting the keeps the prosthetic teeth in place. Partial dentures are an affordable alternative to dental bridges or a dental implant.

Give yourself the gift of a complete smile. To learn more about your options for replacing a missing tooth, call our office in Highlands Ranch to schedule a dental restoration consultation with Dr. Chiu.