What can be done to replace a missing tooth?
Aug 11th, 2008 by Dr. Kourosh Maddahi DDS
There are three options to replace a missing tooth. One option is called a removable partial, but with this option over time there can be damage to the adjacent teeth.
Another option is a bridge where the adjacent teeth are shaved down and, if there is only one tooth missing, three crowns are placed on the teeth, one on each of the adjacent teeth and one for the missing tooth. The problem with that option is that the natural teeth are being shaved down to place the bridge.
The third option is to replace the tooth with a dental implant if there is enough bone in the jaw. With this option you don’t have to touch the adjacent teeth. The titanium implant is placed inside the bone and a crown is placed on top of it.