Dentures and bridges can replace missing teeth, improve your smile and make eating and speaking more comfortable. The right treatment depends on how many teeth are missing, their position and the health of your remaining teeth and gums.
Why should missing teeth be replaced?
Replacing missing teeth is not only about appearance. A gap can place additional strain on nearby teeth and affect the way your upper and lower teeth meet. Teeth beside the space may begin to lean into it, which can alter your bite and allow food to collect, increasing the risk of decay and gum disease.
How can missing teeth be replaced?
There are three main options:
- Partial dentures: removable replacement teeth held on a plate
- Dental bridges: fixed replacement teeth supported by neighbouring teeth
- Dental implants: artificial roots placed in the jawbone to support a crown, bridge or denture
Your dentist will assess your mouth and explain which options are clinically suitable.
What is a partial denture?
A partial denture is a removable plate carrying one or more replacement teeth. It may be made from acrylic, or from a combination of metal and acrylic. Clasps can help hold it securely in place. The design is planned around your remaining teeth and the way you bite.
What is a dental bridge?
A conventional bridge uses crowns on teeth beside a gap to support a false tooth between them. The restoration is made to fit your mouth and is fixed in place with dental cement, so it cannot be removed by the patient.
An adhesive bridge is another option in suitable cases. It uses one or more wings bonded to the back of a supporting tooth and usually requires very little preparation of that tooth.
Can everyone have a bridge?
A bridge needs suitable supporting teeth with healthy gums and good bone support. The size and position of the gap, the condition of the neighbouring teeth and your bite all influence whether a bridge is appropriate.
What are bridges made from?
Bridges may be made from porcelain bonded to a metal base or from strong modern ceramic materials. Your dentist will discuss appearance, durability and cost before treatment begins.
How long will treatment take?
The number of appointments varies according to the type of denture or bridge. Impressions or digital scans and bite records are used to plan the restoration. Trial stages may be required for dentures so that fit, comfort and appearance can be checked before completion.
Looking after dentures and bridges
Dentures should be cleaned daily and handled carefully. Bridges require thorough cleaning underneath and around the supporting teeth. Your dental team can demonstrate suitable brushes, floss or other cleaning aids.
