If you're missing a tooth or just a few teeth, you don't want to overlook this problem. One missing tooth can mean that other teeth begin to shift into this open area of your gums and, in turn, you may wind up with more missing teeth and even bone loss. A certified dentist, such as Alan Hunt, is probably the best person to advise you on the choices that would work for the condition of your mouth, but it can be helpful to understand these choices before you even make an appointment. This will help you to know what to expect according to your oral health and condition of your mouth. Note a few options you may have for replacing missing teeth, and be prepared to discuss these with your dentist.

1. Mini implants

A mini implant set of dentures includes a type of titanium root or post that is implanted in your gum line. Dentures then snap onto that post or root so they stay in place better than if you simply adhered them to your gum line with paste or denture strips. You might compare this system to snaps on a coat or jacket; the inside of the denture has a piece that slips onto the titanium post and, while not a permanent fit, allows the dentures to stay more secure during eating or talking. Your gums need to be healthy enough for these posts to be put into place and to hold them securely.

2. Partial dentures

A set of partial dentures or a bridge can work if you are only missing some teeth, but many patients don't realize that these often need to clip to surrounding teeth to stay in place. A dentist may recommend that you have teeth capped so that they're strong enough and large enough to hold this clip or wire in place. If the teeth you have cannot be capped for any reason, you may not be able to hold your partial dentures in place and a bridge may not work for you.

3. Single implants

A single implant is a false tooth that screws into the gum line; it is a permanent replacement for missing teeth. However, as with mini implants, the gums need to be healthy enough for this procedure and to support the implant. This may not be a solution for when you're missing several teeth, but your dentist can examine your gums and consider if they're strong enough for more than one implant.