Losing a tooth can feel like a big blow to your confidence, and it definitely makes eating your favorite foods a lot harder. Whether it happened because of an injury, age, or a cavity that went too far, you aren’t stuck with a gap in your smile forever.
Modern dentistry has some great ways to fix the problem. Here is a down-to-earth guide to the three most common ways to replace missing teeth.
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Dental Implants: The Gold Standard
Think of a dental implant as a “replacement root.” A dentist places a small metal post into your jawbone. Once it heals and stays firm, they pop a custom-made crown (the part that looks like a tooth) on top.
The Best Part: It feels just like a real tooth. It stays in your mouth permanently, you brush it like normal, and it doesn’t slip around when you talk.
The Catch: It takes the longest to finish because the bone needs time to heal around the post. It also tends to be the most expensive option upfront, though it can last a lifetime.
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Dental Bridges: Closing the Gap
A bridge is exactly what it sounds like. It “bridges” the space left by a missing tooth by using the teeth on either side as anchors. The dentist puts caps on the healthy teeth next to the gap and attaches a fake tooth in the middle.
The Best Part: It’s much faster than getting an implant. Usually, it only takes a couple of appointments. It looks very natural and is a solid, sturdy fix.
The Catch: To make the bridge fit, the dentist has to shave down the healthy teeth next to the gap to put caps on them. Also, because there is no “root” in the bone, the gum under the fake tooth can shrink over time.
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Dentures: The Classic Choice
Most people think of their grandparents’ “false teeth” when they hear dentures, but today’s versions are much more comfortable and realistic. You can get a “partial” denture if you’re only missing a few teeth, or a “full” set if all the teeth on the top or bottom are gone.
The Best Part: This is usually the most affordable way to get your smile back. There is no surgery required, and the process is pretty straightforward.
The Catch: They are removable, which means they can sometimes click or shift when you eat or speak. You have to take them out at night to clean them, and they might need to be adjusted every few years as the shape of your mouth changes.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing the right option usually comes down to three things: your budget, your health, and your schedule.
- If you want something that feels 100% natural and you don’t mind the cost, implants are the way to go.
- If you want a quick fix that is permanent but less invasive than surgery, a bridge is a great middle ground.
- If you need to replace many teeth at once without breaking the bank, dentures are a reliable solution.
The best thing you can do is talk to a dentist you trust. Smriti Raj Dentistry is known to be a highly trusted dental clinic in Dwarka, Delhi. They can look at your X-rays and help you pick the one that fits your life best.
