WHY IT’S WORTH REPLACING A TOOTH

When a tooth is gone, it leaves behind more than a gap in your smile. Over time, the teeth around that space can begin to shift or tip toward the opening, which may change the way your bite comes together. Changes can happen below the gums, too. Without a tooth root there, the bone in that area can gradually shrink.

Your teeth work together as part of an arch, so when one is missing, it can affect more than just that one spot. Replacing it can help support the teeth around it and keep your bite working the way it should.
 

CASE STUDY: DENTAL IMPLANTS

The before-and-after photos show a more balanced, natural-looking smile following restorative treatment, with careful attention to tooth shape, proportion and the way the finished teeth meet the gumline.

KEEPING THE ARCH SUPPORTED

There are several ways to replace a missing tooth, depending on how many teeth are missing and what is going on with the teeth and bone around them.

For a single missing tooth, a dental implant may be a great option. The implant is placed in the jaw where the root used to be, then topped with a crown. Since it stands on its own, the healthy teeth next to it usually do not have to be used for support.

A bridge takes a different approach, filling the space with a replacement tooth supported by the neighboring teeth. If several teeth are missing, a removable partial denture may work well. Full dentures can replace an entire upper or lower arch, and implants can also be used to give dentures added support.

FINDING THE RIGHT FIT

There is no single answer for replacing a missing tooth. Dr. Kim and Dr. Hahn are both prosthodontists, with advanced training in dental implants, bridges, dentures, and more involved restorative cases.

If you are missing a tooth, or you know one may need to be removed, we can take a look and talk through the possibilities with you. Together, we can decide which option makes the most sense for your mouth, your bite, and your day-to-day life.