Losing a tooth or even all of your teeth can cause many problems to oral health, explains a Leeds dentist. Aside from vanity, a missing tooth can also have physical ramifications, depending on where in the mouth the tooth was and what circumstances surrounded the loss. In some cases, a tooth does not need replacing. But if the tooth was lost in a trauma, it could lead to many complications- the surrounding teeth that remain, may become weaker, leading to infections and gum disease. But help is on hand and there are procedures available to rectify the problem. After a consultation with the dentist, a course of action will be taken that best suits the patient and their pocket. The cheaper solution is a dental bridge (fixed partial denture). Teeth either side of the gap will be prepared so that the new tooth can be attached to them. It looks good as well as halting any movement to the remaining teeth. As will the bridges’ more expensive cousin- the dental implant. Like a bridge, implant procedures have become refined over the years but can be complex and take a lot more time due to the healing process, depending on the work required. A hole is drilled into the jaw bone and a screw inserted. Once the gums have recovered, (anywhere up to 6 months), the tooth will then be attached. Much of the success of both treatments lay in the healing and constant attention to oral hygiene. Diet is important, as is refraining from smoking and heavy drinking during recovery.