Replacing your missing teeth

Are you missing your missing tooth?

Losing a tooth can affect more than just the appearance of your smile. It may influence how you chew, how clearly you speak and the overall alignment of your remaining teeth. When a gap is left untreated, surrounding teeth may drift into the space, placing additional stress on your bite and potentially leading to further issues over time.

Replacing missing teeth can help restore everyday function and maintain a more balanced oral environment. At Wickham Dental Carseldine, we offer several options and will guide you through choices that suit your goals, oral health and lifestyle. Every patient is different, so a consultation is important for determining which approach is most appropriate.

Understanding your replacement options

The first step is deciding whether a fixed or removable option is better for you. Each has advantages depending on your needs, comfort preferences and clinical suitability.

Fixed options include

Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed restoration that fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. It is supported by the natural teeth or dental implants on either side of the space. Bridges may be recommended when adjacent teeth can provide stable support.

Implants and implant restorations

Dental implants replace the root of a missing tooth and are restored with a crown, bridge or other attachment. Implants are designed to integrate with the jawbone and offer a fixed, stable solution. Suitability depends on bone health, medical history and individual assessment during consultation.

Removable options include

Valplast partial dentures

A flexible, lightweight option designed to improve comfort. These may be suitable for patients wanting a less rigid style of partial denture.

Chrome partial dentures

These dentures have a metal framework designed for increased durability. They may provide a more secure fit while remaining relatively slim compared to acrylic options.

Acrylic partial dentures

Often used as an affordable or interim option, acrylic partial dentures can replace one or several missing teeth. They are bulkier than chrome frameworks but may be appropriate in many situations.

Full dentures

Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper arch, lower arch or both. They rest on the gums and are custom made to support function and appearance.

Which option is right for you

The best solution depends on several factors, including:

• The number and position of missing teeth

• The health of the remaining teeth and gums

• Bone levels and suitability for implants

• Your preferences regarding fixed or removable solutions

• Lifestyle considerations such as ease of cleaning and comfort

• Budget and treatment goals

Your dentist will discuss these factors with you, along with the benefits and limitations of each option, so you can make an informed decision.

Supporting your long term oral health

Replacing missing teeth can help maintain facial support, improve chewing comfort and assist in keeping the bite more evenly balanced. However, each replacement type requires proper care and routine check ups. Your clinician will provide individualised guidance once a treatment plan is chosen.

If you would like to explore your options or have questions about suitability, bookings can be made by contacting us directly.

Call us on (07) 3863 3604 to arrange an appointment.