When one has a missing tooth or teeth, it is vital to address this problem as soon as possible. A space that is left in the mouth causes stress on the remaining teeth and over time can lead to other teeth being lost. In addition, the bone in the area of a missing tooth can diminish in thickness, which can mean fewer options for the patient in terms of how to replace the missing tooth or teeth later on.
     
There are two ways to replace missing teeth in a permanent way:

• Implants provide a way to replace a missing tooth or teeth in a way that is permanent, aesthetic and comfortable without having to include the teeth adjacent to the tooth or teeth that are being replaced.
• Crown and Bridge restorations also provide a permanent result for broken or missing teeth. A bridge can be a way to create a permanent, aesthetic and comfortable restoration in cases where there may not be enough bone to support an implant or where the teeth adjacent to the space may need to be restored in some way as well.