How to Replace a Missing Tooth and Restore Your Smile

Tooth loss isn't just an aesthetic issue. The absence of one or more teeth can have a number of unpleasant consequences, from speech impediments to digestive problems. In addition, neighboring teeth shift, and the chewing load is displaced, which can lead to enamel wear, joint strain, and even changes in facial features. The good news is that modern dentistry offers several options for restoring a lost tooth. In this article, we have gathered the main tooth replacement methods to find out which option is right for you.

1. Dental implant

Implantation is one of the most modern and long-lasting methods for replacing a missing tooth. The implant is a titanium screw (post) that is inserted into the jaw and replaces the tooth root. A crown is attached to it, which looks and functions like a real tooth.

Advantages:

• Durability (lasts 15-25 years or more)

• Natural appearance

• No grinding of neighboring teeth is necessary

• Full chewing load

Disadvantages:

• High cost

• Surgical intervention is required

• Long recovery time (up to 6 months)

A dental implant is the optimal choice for people who are seeking a long-term and functional solution and are willing to wait and invest in their health.

2. Dental bridge

A dental bridge is a construction consisting of crowns that are attached to adjacent teeth and cover the space between them. It is securely attached and restores appearance and chewing function.

Advantages:

• Faster than implantation

• Aesthetic result

• More affordable

Disadvantages:

• Grinding of neighboring healthy teeth is required

• Lifespan - 7-10 years

• Can lead to pressure on the supporting teeth

A bridge is suitable for those whose neighboring teeth are already damaged or have fillings and who want to restore the tooth relatively quickly.

3. Removable dentures

Removable dentures are plate-like structures that can be inserted and removed independently. They can be partial (if you are missing one or more teeth) or complete (if you are missing any teeth at all).

Advantages:

• Affordable price

• No surgery is required

• Quick production

Disadvantages:

• Less comfortable to wear

• May shift when eating and speaking

• Requires regular maintenance and replacement

This type of teeth replacement is a good option for a temporary solution or for older people who can't get dental implants due to contraindications.

4. Bonded bridge

This type of denture is attached to the neighboring teeth with special inserts. It requires no significant grinding and is often used in cases where an incisor has been lost.

Advantages:

• Gentle method

• Fast production

• Affordable price

Disadvantages:

• Lower strength

• Limited use (mostly for front teeth)

• Not suitable for heavy loads

If you have lost an incisor or canine and want to preserve the adjacent teeth, a bonded dental bridge can be a temporary or even permanent solution.

5. Immediate loading implant

Modern technologies allow for the placement of an implant and a temporary crown on the same day. However, this is not always possible – the bone must be in good condition, and there must be no inflammation.

Advantages:

• Fast results

• Minimal discomfort

• Preserves aesthetics

Disadvantages:

• Not suitable for all clinical cases

• Higher costs

• Risk of rejection due to overload

This solution is often chosen by people who want to quickly regain their confidence and be able to smile without embarrassment.

Not replacing a tooth at all is a bad idea

Some people put off going to the dentist, especially if the missing tooth isn't visible. But in reality, even a single lost tooth affects the entire bite. Neighboring teeth begin to shift, the load increases and the bone at the site of the missing tooth begins to deteriorate – this is called atrophy. In the long term, this leads to new problems, including changes in facial shape. Therefore, even if the tooth isn't visible, it should be restored as soon as possible.