People often live with a tooth gap even though when they see themselves in photos, it’s the one thing that they hate about themselves.

Smiles and teeth have rocketed up the ‘what’s the first thing people notice about you’ list. It is in the top 2 now where as even just 15 years ago a smile and teeth came after boobs and bottoms!

So how hard is it to fill a tooth gap? This mainly depends on how many teeth are missing. One or two gaps next to each other are the easiest to fill with permanent (no taking out) solutions.

Implants have had a lot of publicity in the last 10 years and are probably going to be around for many more until stem cell (growing a new tooth) becomes a science fiction possibility.

Implants involve placing a metal post (like a tooth root) into your jaw bone, under the gum. The bone then grows in and around the implant, fusing it to your bone. Once stable a crown/bridge can be fitted to the top of the implant.

Implants are just like having your own tooth back, although some people find the sensation on biting is different.

Healthy gums and enough bone to support an implant are very important criteria. Implants are still susceptible to gum disease, so a high standard of oral hygiene, regular check ups and Hygienist maintenance visits are essential for long term success.

The advantages are:

– They are permanent

– They look very natural

– No adjacent teeth need to be prepared

– They can help prevent future bone loss and support the face.

– They can last for many years and with great care may last a lifetime

– You can eat what you like, and they are more comfortable than dentures

The disadvantages are:

– They are expensive (between 2-4 thousand pounds depending on the complexity)

– They require a big maintenance commitment

– They can take up to 9 months to place, heal and finish

– They require surgery

– They can sometimes be rejected or fail, due to gum disease or other risk factors like smoking or diabetes

If you have no teeth on the top/bottom jaws, implants can be placed (normally 4 or 6) and a small metal scaffolding can be placed on top of them. Then dentures are made that actually click on to the top of the frame to provide very firm and stable dentures.

If you would like to come and see if you are suitable for implants, why not book an appointment for a check up at The Dental Barn at 01323 325397