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Replacing missing teeth Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, November 2008.

Answers to questions about replacing missing teeth

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

Do missing teeth always need to be replaced?

It usually depends on where in your mouth the gap is. If you have lost a front tooth, it will probably need to be replaced for cosmetic reasons. But if the gap is at the back of your mouth, replacement of the tooth may not be necessary.

Explanation

Losing teeth at the back of your mouth doesn't always affect the way that your teeth work or look overall, so they don't always need to be replaced. However, a missing back tooth can sometimes cause your dental arches, which support your teeth, to collapse slightly. A missing back tooth can also affect the way that your upper and lower teeth bite together, if the teeth either side start to lean into the gap. If your dentist thinks this may happen, he or she will recommend that you have the tooth replaced.

Food can sometimes get stuck in the gap left by a missing tooth and this may cause tooth decay and gum disease. Your dentist can advise you whether or not your tooth should be replaced. If you decide that your tooth does need to be replaced then you should discuss the possible ways of doing this with your dentist.

Further information

Sources

  • Wray PD, Wray DA. Understanding your teeth and mouth. Family Doctor Publications in association with the British Medical Association, 2000: 52-55
  • Frequently asked questions - bridges and partial dentures. British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 26 June 2008
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Will having my teeth replaced hurt?

No, you shouldn't experience any pain with any type of tooth replacement. But you may feel some discomfort to begin with.

Explanation

Different types of tooth replacement involve different procedures. If you have a dental implant fitted then you will need a small operation so that your dentist can place the implant in your mouth. You will be given a local anaesthetic injection before the operation. This will numb the area so that you won't feel any pain. You may feel some discomfort for a few days after the operation. Taking over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol, should help with this. Always read the information leaflet that comes with your medicine and ask your pharmacist for advice if you have any questions. If you're in a lot of pain or have any swelling in your mouth then you should contact your dentist.

If you're having a bridge fitted, the teeth on either side of the bridge may need to be prepared as crowns. This means that your dentist will reduce the surfaces of these teeth by about 1 to 2mm using a drill. You will be given a local anaesthetic before this procedure to numb the area and stop you from feeling any pain. If you do experience any pain after the operation, taking over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol should help with this. Always read the information leaflet that comes with your medicine and see your pharmacist for advice if you have any questions. If the pain continues, ask your dentist for advice.

Further information

Sources

  • Is it uncomfortable when the implants are placed? Association of Dental Implantology UK. www.adi.org.uk, accessed 22 August 2008
  • Frequently asked questions - implants. British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 26 June 2008
  • Wray PD, Wray DA. Understanding your teeth and mouth. Family Doctor Publications in association with the British Medical Association, 2000: 52-55
  • Frequently asked questions - crowns. British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 26 June 2008
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How much will having my missing teeth replaced cost?

The cost will depend on what type of treatment you have and prices will vary from dentist to dentist.

Explanation

The cost of having your missing tooth replaced will depend on the dental surgery that you go to. Your dentist will provide you with an estimate of how much your treatment will cost. You should ask for a written estimate from your dentist before you have your missing tooth replaced. Having your teeth replaced can sometimes be expensive but in the long term it should be worthwhile.

Further information

Sources

  • Frequently asked questions - bridges and partial dentures. British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 26 June 2008
  • Frequently asked questions - implants. British Dental Health Foundation. www.dentalhealth.org.uk, accessed 26 June 2008
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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: November 2008

 

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