Besides having dental implants, there are two main ways to replace missing teeth. The first is with a removable false tooth or teeth – a partial denture. The second is with a fixed bridge.

A dental bridge is usually used when there are fewer teeth to replace or when the missing teeth are only on one side of the mouth. Bridges are typically made of a precious metal base.

If the bridge shows, porcelain is then bonded to the base. Sometimes, other non-precious metals are used in the ground to reduce costs.

It would be best if you replace missing teeth for several reasons. Your appearance is one reason. Another is that the gap left by a missing tooth can mean more significant strain is put on the teeth on either side.

A gap can also mean your ‘bite’ is affected because the teeth next to the space can lean into the hole and alter how the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can lead to food getting packed into the gap, which causes both decay and gum disease.