Your options
- Dental implant: a titanium post in the jawbone with a natural-looking crown. Stands on its own, so neighbouring teeth are not cut down.
- Bridge: a false tooth held by crowns on the teeth on either side of the gap.
- Denture: a removable replacement for several or all teeth, which can also be fixed on implants.
Watch: missing teeth
All videosA happy denture patient
One of our patients shares her happiness after getting her new dentures at Balaji Dental Clinic, Solapur.
About this videoWhat happens when missing teeth are not replaced
A 3D scan shows how, when lost teeth are not replaced, the remaining teeth take the extra load of chewing, wear down and can break. The red circle marks the teeth most likely to fracture next.
About this videoWhy missing teeth can lead to broken teeth
A 37-year-old patient came to the clinic with a broken tooth. His X-ray and 3D scan show how missing teeth that were never replaced put extra pressure on the remaining teeth while eating. Replacing missing teeth protects the teeth you still have. Captions in Marathi.
About this videoAn old dental bridge that failed, seen on a 3D scan
X-rays and a 3D scan of an old dental bridge in the upper jaw and the teeth that supported it, and the bridge after removal.
About this videoDental implant or dental bridge? Two ways to replace a tooth
An animated explainer on the two main fixed ways to replace a missing tooth: a dental bridge, supported by crowns on the neighbouring teeth, and a dental implant, a small titanium post placed in the jawbone. Captions in Marathi.
About this video
Choosing what suits you
The best option depends on how many teeth are missing, the health of the neighbouring teeth and gums, the amount of bone, and your preferences. Implants are planned and placed by Dr. Vivek Marda, who will explain the options for your case at a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Is it too late to replace a tooth I lost years ago?
Not usually. Bone can shrink over time, but there are ways to plan around it. An examination and X-ray will show what is possible.
Does getting an implant hurt?
It is done under local anaesthetic, and most people feel pressure rather than pain. Mild soreness for a few days afterwards is normal.
Treatments that can help
- Dental ImplantsA long-term option to replace single or multiple missing teeth with biocompatible titanium implants, planned around your clinical needs.Learn more
- Smile MakeoverA planned combination of treatments to improve the shape, colour and balance of your smile.Learn more
- Dental bridgeFixedA false tooth joined to crowns on the teeth either side of the gap and cemented in place, so it is never taken out.
- Natural tooth placementFixedWhen a front tooth has to be removed, its own natural crown can sometimes be shaped and bonded to the neighbouring teeth, so you are never left with a gap.
- Complete dentureRemovableA full set of teeth on a gum-coloured base for when all the teeth in a jaw are missing. It can also be held on implants for a firmer grip.
- RPD (Removable Partial Denture)RemovableA gum-coloured plate carrying one or more false teeth, held by small clasps on your remaining teeth. Simple, affordable and easy to add to later.
- CPD (Cast Partial Denture)RemovableA partial denture built on a thin, strong cast-metal frame. Less bulky than an acrylic plate and steadier while you chew.
- Flexible dentureRemovableA light partial denture made of a flexible material with gum-coloured clasps, so no metal hooks show when you smile.
Which option suits you depends on how many teeth are missing, your gums, bone and budget. The dentist will go through them with you at a consultation.
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. For advice about your own teeth, please book a visit.