Discover the 5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

A person’s smile is often the first thing people notice, and a missing tooth or visible gap can affect self-confidence and how we interact with those around us. This negative impact is one of the main reasons oral healthcare providers typically recommend tooth replacement. If this has been suggested to you, there are many options available, depending on the scale, cost, or final goal.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through five ways to replace missing teeth. Read on to discover how you can regain both your smile and oral function.

Why Does Missing Tooth Replacement Matter? 

Tooth loss doesn’t just impact appearance; it can lead to:

• Shifting of nearby teeth
• Difficulty eating and speaking
• Jawbone deterioration
• Bite misalignment
• Increased risk of future tooth loss

Luckily, modern dentistry offers several solutions to replace your tooth effectively and beautifully.

5 Ways to Replace a Missing Tooth

Here are the five common missing tooth replacement options:

• Dental Implant

If you’re looking for a long-term replacement for a missing tooth, a dental implants is the gold standard. A titanium post is surgically placed within your jawbone, mimicking the root of your original tooth. Once healed, a crown is attached to complete your smile.

• Procedure time: 3–6 months (includes healing)
• Durability: 15–25+ years with proper care

Pros:

• It is considered one of the best options to replace a missing tooth.
• It provides you with a natural feel and look.
• The adjacent teeth remain unaffected and intact.
• They are a permanent, lifelong replacement, with no special care other than basic oral hygiene (brushing, flossing, etc.)

Cons:

• Dental insurance does not cover dental implants, as it is an expensive procedure.
• The process involves invasive surgical procedures, a lengthy healing time, and room for infection.

• Implant-Supported Bridge

If you require replacements for multiple teeth, a standard bridge isn’t always viable. An implant-supported bridge uses two implants as anchors to support several artificial teeth.

• Ideal for: 2–4 missing teeth in one area
• Procedure time: 3–6 months
• Durability: 10–15 years

Pros: 

• It is an economical choice for replacing multiple missing teeth in a row.
• Implant-supported bridges are as effective as single dental implants.
• Similar to single dental implants, they look just like your natural teeth.

Cons:

• You can only opt for an implant-supported bridge if you have many consecutively missing teeth.
• They aren’t a permanent solution, and the bridge might need replacement.
• The process requires numerous visits to the dentist.

• Tooth-Supported Bridge

A more affordable and non-surgical option, this involves putting crowns on teeth adjacent to the tooth gap, which act as anchors for the replacement tooth (pontic).

• Procedure time: 2–3 weeks
• Durability: 7–15 years

Pros:

• They provide a realistic look and feel, similar to a dental implant.
• The process doesn’t involve any surgical steps.
• More economical than a dental implant.

Cons:

• The natural teeth must be shaved down for the dental crowns to fit, increasing the chance of infection and decay down the road.
• Poorly fitted bridges can damage the adjoining teeth over time.
• Food particles can get lodged underneath the dental bridge, making cleaning difficult. This increases the risk of infection and bone loss if you aren’t careful with your cleaning.

• Removable Partial Denture

This is a removable appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It uses metal clasps to attach to nearby teeth.

• Procedure time: 2–4 weeks
• Durability: 5–7 years

Pros:

• If the patient loses more teeth in the future, the other false teeth can be added directly to the partial denture. This helps save time and money.
• It is one of the cheapest options for replacing missing teeth.
• Easy to repair and replace if required.
• The application is simple.

Cons:

• They can be uncomfortable if not made properly.
• They must be removed and cleaned daily.
• It must be removed before sleeping.
• Due to the visibility of the metal clasps, partial dentures may not be the most natural-looking solution.

• Flipper (Temporary Denture)

A flipper is a lightweight acrylic removable partial denture used as a temporary solution. It helps maintain aesthetics and spacing until a permanent fix is ready.

• Procedure time: 1–2 weeks
• Durability: 6 months to 1 year. 

Pros:

• Relatively cheaper.
• A painless option for replacing a missing tooth.
• Provides temporary tooth replacement until a more permanent option is available.

Cons: 

• It can be uncomfortable.
• The bulky design has a greater chance of breaking.

Quick Summary

Here’s a quick guide for picking your tooth replacement option:

Final Thoughts: Reclaim Your Smile Today with University Ave Dental

Replacing missing teeth with appropriate treatments is easier than you think. These options will help you restore oral health and appearance, simultaneously boosting overall confidence. 

If you’re considering options for tooth replacement, it’s always advisable to consult with an experienced oral healthcare provider. Replacement can be a delicate process, necessitating careful consultation with experienced professionals.

University Ave Dental proudly serves the residents of Blaine, MN. Our experienced dentists and hygienists have experience treating a wide range of dental conditions. We can advise you on the best course of action and help you craft a hygiene routine for lasting success. 

Contact one of the premier dentists in blaine, today.

Our Address: 10155 University Ave NE Suite #112, Blaine, MN 55434, United States

Phone: 763.784.1242

FAQs 

• Is it necessary to replace a back tooth?
  Yes. Even a missing molar can lead to shifting teeth, bite issues, and bone loss.

• Will insurance cover it?
  Many dental plans cover bridges and partial dentures, but implants often require additional coverage.

•  Do dental implants hurt?
  Implants are placed under local anaesthesia. Most patients report mild discomfort afterwards, similar to a tooth extraction.

• How long do these options last?

• Implants: 15–25+ years
• Bridges: 7–15 years
• Dentures: 5–8 years