Your appearance is one reason. Another is that the gap left by a missing tooth can mean greater strain is put on the teeth at either side.

A gap can also mean your “bite” is affected, because the teeth next to the space can lean into the gap and alter the way the upper and lower teeth bite together. This can then lead to jaw joint problems.

This depends on the number of teeth missing and on where they are in the mouth. The condition of the other teeth also affects the decision. There are three ways to replace the missing teeth.

The first is with a removable false tooth or teeth, a partial denture. The second way is with a fixed bridge. A bridge is usually used where the gap borders to solid teeth, which have already crowns or large fillings.
The third way is with an (root) implant and a crown.

A bridge is a false tooth which is fused between two crowns to fill in the area left by a missing tooth. The two crowns hold the bridge in place and are attached onto your teeth on each side of the false tooth. This is what is known as a fixed bridge. A fixed bridge can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges cannot be taken out of your mouth.

Bridges usually made of porcelain bonded to metal or Zirconia (high strength ceramic) or entirely metallic.

Cost will vary according to the size and type of bridge you need. Always get a written estimate and treatment plan before beginning any dental treatment.

You need to clean your bridge every day, to prevent problems such as bad breath and gum disease. You also have to clean under the false tooth every day.
Our implantologist or hygienist will show you how to use a special brush and floss, as a normal toothbrush cannot reach all areas.

Yes. By having implants. The success of this technique means you may be able to replace missing teeth without crowning other teeth.
See our implant section for more details. Remember that it is as important to care for your remaining teeth as it is to replace the missing ones.