I Have a Missing Tooth – What Are My Options?
A missing tooth can make eating awkward, smiling stressful, and speaking self-conscious.
You are not alone - many people lose a tooth through decay, gum disease, injury, or after a difficult extraction. The good news is that you have several reliable options to restore your smile. In this guide, you will learn what those options are, why dental implants are often considered the gold standard, who they suit best, and what to expect from treatment with Pallant Advanced Dentistry in Chichester.
You have four main routes, each with pros and cons depending on your goals, budget, and oral health.
- Do nothing short term
Sometimes you can wait briefly if you are planning treatment soon. Long term, this is not recommended. Neighbouring teeth can drift, your bite can change, and bone in the gap can shrink, which complicates future options. - Removable partial denture
A denture is a custom acrylic or metal plate with one or more teeth that clips in and out. It is non-surgical and cost-effective. It will restore appearance and some function, though it can feel bulky at first and needs daily cleaning. We also provide full dentures and implant-supported dentures if you have more widespread tooth loss. - Dental bridge
A bridge replaces the missing tooth by anchoring a porcelain tooth to the teeth next to the gap. It is fixed in place, looks natural, and works well for many patients. However, the supporting teeth may need shaping to hold the bridge, and cleaning under the bridge requires care. - Dental implant
An implant is a small titanium post placed in the jaw, which supports a lifelike crown. It stands independently, so it does not rely on the teeth next door. It helps preserve bone, looks and feels very natural, and can last many years with good care. This is why implants are widely seen as the long-term gold standard for single tooth replacement.
What are dental implants, and how do they work?
A dental implant acts like an artificial tooth root. After careful planning and a minor surgical procedure, the implant is placed into the jaw where it integrates with the bone. This natural bonding process, called osseointegration, creates a secure base. Once healed, a custom abutment and porcelain crown are attached, giving you a tooth that looks and functions like the real thing.
You can bite, chew, and smile with confidence, and you clean it much like your other teeth with brushing, interdental cleaning, and routine check-ups.
Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
Many adults with a missing tooth are suitable. Ideal candidates usually have:
- Good general and oral health, with healthy gums
- Enough jawbone to support an implant, or suitability for bone grafting if needed
- A commitment to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental care
- No uncontrolled medical conditions that affect healing, such as poorly controlled diabetes, or heavy smoking
If your teeth have shifted into the gap, or if your bite needs refining to create ideal space for an implant crown, orthodontic treatment may be recommended first. Our specialist team can coordinate care so alignment and implants work together for the best long-term result.
Why choose dental implants over other options?
Dental implants offer several advantages that make them a strong long-term choice:
- Preserve tooth structure - Implants do not require shaping healthy neighbouring teeth, unlike many bridges.
- Protect your bite and bone - Because the implant stimulates the jaw, it helps reduce bone loss in the area, maintaining facial structure and supporting a stable bite.
- Natural look and feel - A custom crown is colour-matched to your smile. The result feels secure and functions like a natural tooth.
- Long-term value - With good hygiene and maintenance, implants offer predictable longevity, which can make them cost-effective over time.
That said, bridges and dentures can still be the better fit in some cases, for example if you want a quicker, non-surgical solution, or if medical factors make implant surgery unsuitable. We will always discuss every option with you so you can make a confident, informed choice.
What is the process for getting a dental implant?
Your journey is planned carefully so you know what to expect at each step.
- Consultation and assessment
You will meet our team for a thorough assessment. We discuss your goals, take digital scans and X-rays, and check gum health and bone levels. If you are a candidate, you will receive a bespoke plan with timings and costs. If you need preparatory care, such as hygiene treatment or orthodontics to open space, we build that in from the start. - Planning and preparation
Precise digital planning ensures the implant is placed in the best position for a strong, natural-looking result. If bone grafting or a sinus lift is required, we will explain why and what it involves. - Implant placement
The implant is placed under local anaesthetic. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable the procedure is. You will leave with clear aftercare guidance and a temporary solution if needed for appearance. - Healing and integration
Over a few months, the implant integrates with your jawbone. During this time, you visit us for checks. Good hygiene is essential to support healing. - Crown fitting
Once integration is confirmed, we fit a custom abutment and crown crafted to blend with your smile. We check your bite and comfort, then share tailored advice for ongoing care. - Maintenance
Regular check-ups, hygiene visits, and excellent home care keep your implant and gums healthy. We will show you the best cleaning tools for long-term success.
Expert implant care at Pallant Advanced Dentistry
At Pallant Advanced Dentistry, you benefit from a specialist-led, integrated approach. Our implant dentist, Dr Sunie Kundi, focuses on precision planning, patient comfort, and predictable results. If your case also needs alignment, our in-house orthodontic specialists can straighten teeth first so your implant crown slots into an optimised bite. This collaborative planning helps your new tooth look natural and last.
If you are exploring options for dental implants Chichester, our team in the heart of the city can guide you from first conversation to final smile, with clear explanations, flexible payment options, and a calm, modern clinic environment.
What if you are not ready for an implant?
There is no one-size-fits-all path. If you prefer a removable solution, a partial denture can restore confidence while you consider next steps. If neighbouring teeth already need crowns, a bridge may be a smart, efficient choice. Some patients choose orthodontic treatment to align teeth before any restoration, improving long-term gum health and bite function. If straightening is part of your plan, you can explore options with our specialists in Chichester orthodontics.
Your next step
Living with a gap does not have to be permanent. Whether you want the long-term security of an implant, the convenience of a bridge, or a removable denture while you consider your options, we are here to help you choose confidently.
Book a free consultation with our specialist team at Pallant Advanced Dentistry in Chichester. Ask your questions, see your digital scans, and leave with a clear plan that suits you. If you are comparing options locally, and want expert guidance from a Chichester dentist who can manage your full journey under one roof, we would love to meet you.
