Having a set of teeth that you can be comfortable with can change the way you live your life.

On occasion, for a variety of reasons, you may lose teeth. Regardless of the cause, there are a number of tooth replacement options available to you.

What causes the loss of teeth?

The primary cause of tooth loss is gum disease, accounting for approximately 70% of cases. Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease involves the bacteria and inflammation in the gums dismantling the gum tissues and will often destroy the jawbone underneath the gums, resulting in no support for the teeth.

Others may be affected by cavities – holes in teeth caused by a bacterial infection that turns into tooth decay. When left untreated, cavities break down pulp at the centre of teeth, which subsequently leads to the need for root canal treatment or even complete removal of the tooth. Cavities are certainly preventable, by practising a good oral health routine. Opting for healthy, sugar-free food and drink, brushing your teeth and making regular trips to the dentist will give your teeth the best chance to remain completely healthy.

Alternatively, people may experience physical injury or trauma, which causes the loss of a tooth. Most commonly through sports, we recommended always wearing a gum shield if you think there is any possibility of a potential tooth loss. There are also a number of day-to-day measures you can take to ensure your teeth remain intact. Don’t use your teeth to remove tops or lids, tear off tags or loosen knots. When eating, try not to use your teeth to chew ice, open nut shells or chew on popcorn kernels.

Finally, there are a number of diseases and risk factors that may contribute to the loss of a tooth. Diabetes, hypertension, arthritis and smoking are among some of the common causes, so be sure to mention any diseases and/or lifestyle choices to your dentist, so you can work together to prevent tooth loss.

Tooth Replacement Options

Fortunately, there are now a number of options available to patients suffering from tooth loss.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are commonly used when you need to replace a single tooth, or when you’re missing teeth in several different areas of your mouth. In short, a replacement tooth is mounted on to an implant, allowing the tooth to remain set in place. The main benefit of dental implants is that they resemble natural teeth and can last for decades when cared for correctly.

Consider dental implants a permanent base for replacement teeth. Read more on our dental implants page.

Fixed Dental Bridges

If an implant isn’t the right option for you, fixed dental bridges may be an option. If you’re missing teeth in the same area, this treatment may be ideal. Fixed bridges overlay a gap caused by a missing tooth via a dental prosthetic or artificial tooth. The dental prosthetic will be attached to adjacent teeth and bonded in place using dental cement. As with dental implants, bridges both look and feel like your natural teeth, making for a subtle treatment.

Find out more about dental bridges at Etwall Dental Practice, here.

Removable Partial Dentures

If you are missing a small amount of teeth, our dentists may recommend a removable partial denture. These dentures consist of replacement teeth, set atop a natural-looking base. The base is designed to match the colour of your gums and is held in place by the remaining teeth. In some cases, a clasp will be used, which adjoins to the natural teeth.

If you need to replace multiple teeth, partial dentures may be for you. Read more here.

Our dental experts are vastly experienced in providing the best solution for missing teeth. If you’re looking to replace missing teeth, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. Your oral health and dental care is of the foremost importance to us. If you feel as though you may require dental treatment, please get in touch with us via phone on 01283 733391 or fill out our contact form and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Alternatively, please see a full list of Treatments.