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

Partial Dentures

The first way to replace missing teeth is with a removable false tooth or teeth - a partial denture. This consists of false teeth fixed to a plate which is then usually held in place by the use of clips that fit around the remaining teeth. The plate is made of either a plastic or metal base. Metal dentures can be made more accurately and as the metal is much stronger than plastic the plate is usually smaller and thinner.

	Upper arch with missing teeth  Metal based partial denture fitted

The price of a partial denture depends on a number of factors. An individual estimate can only be given when you have seen and talked to your dentist.