Missing teeth may affect appearance, speech, chewing, other standing teeth and jaw-joint function. There are a few treatment options for management of this condition. Options most suitable for you depend on several factors including your general health, the state of your
jaws, gums and other surrounding structures, your own choice and affordability.
Provided below is a summary of options available in management of missing teeth
Option 1 - Leaving the gap open
Oops! Mind the gap. How to deal with missing teeth - your options
Gaps can be left open if the missing tooth or teeth are at the back and do not affect appearance and / or chewing. Gaps are not acceptable
in the front or anywhere several teeth are missing. Leaving gaps open may also allow teeth to drift or tilt. There is also an increased
risk of gum disease and jaw-joint problems.
Dentures are removable appliances. The artificial teeth are made of acrylic (plastic) attached to either a plastic or metal base.
The denture is supported in the mouth by other standing teeth and the gums. They are relatively cheaper than bridges and implants
and easy to maintain. They are not very popular for fear of dropping out, occupying a large space and movement (rocking)with talking
and chewing.
Option 2 - Wearing dentures
Option 3 - Fitting a dental bridge
Bridges are fixed appliances that are supported by teeth adjacent to the gap. These teeth would have been trimmed down to accommodate
the bridge.They may also be supported by posts fitted in tooth roots or by implants. They are more stable than dentures but may involve
filing down of healthy teeth next to the gap. They are also more expensive than dentures.
Option 4 - Dental Implants
These small Titanium posts are inserted into the jawbone where the gap is located. Implants may support a crown for a single missing
tooth or a bridge or denture where there is a wider gap. Inserting dental implants involves minor oral surgery ususally under local
anaesthesia and is hence painless. They are the most expensive option at onset but last by far the longest and hence prove the least
expensive option.
Affordable dental implants
Specialist Clinics in Implant Dentistry & Minor Oral Surgery
020 7834 6361
Dr Wale Towolawi
Implant Surgeon, London U.K.
Wilton
63a Wilton Road
Victoria
LONDON SW1V 1DE
dental
care
