There are two principal reasons for replacing missing teeth.

The first and most obvious is your appearance.

The second is that the gap left by a missing tooth or teeth can place greater strain on the teeth at either side. A gap can also affect your "bite" as the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bit together. This can then lead to food getting trapped in the gap(s) which causes decay and gum disease.

The way in which missing teeth are replaced depends on:

 The number of teeth missing
 Where they are in the mouth
 The condition of the remaining teeth and gums

There are three main ways to replace the missing teeth - partial dentures, bridges and dental implants.

Bridges

The second method of replacing missing teeth is with a fixed bridge. A bridge is usually only used where there are fewer teeth to replace or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth. You also need strong teeth with good bone support to attach the bridge to.

Conventional bridges are made by crowning the teeth on either side of the bridge and attaching a false tooth / teeth in the middle. These bridges are made of the same materials and fixed in the same way of crowns.

Adhesive bridges are another way of bridging a gap. These bridges are made up of a false tooth with 'metal wings' on either side. These wings are made to bond to the teeth on either side, with very little drilling of these teeth. The teeth are roughened and the bridge is fitted using a very strong composite resin.

Missing tooth	Adjacent teeth are prepared for crowning	Finished bridgework

With proper care and attention, a bridge should last for many years.