Dental
I Have Missing Teeth, What Are My Options?
Jan 19, 2026
Losing a tooth changes everything. It affects how you chew, how you speak, and how confident you feel when you smile.
When it comes to filling that gap, you generally have three choices. At our clinic, we believe in giving you the full picture so you can make the best long-term decision for your health. Here are your options, ranked from the most advanced solution to the most basic.
1. The Gold Standard: Dental Implants
If you want a solution that looks, feels, and functions exactly like a natural tooth, this is it.
A dental implant is a small titanium root surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the tooth root. Once healed, we place a custom crown on top. It is the only option that replaces the entire tooth structure, not just the visible part.
Why It’s The Best Option:
The Verdict: It is the closest thing to getting your natural tooth back.
2. The Middle Ground: Dental Bridges
Before implants became common, this was the go-to fixed option. A bridge literally "bridges the gap" by anchoring a fake tooth to the two natural teeth on either side of the space.
How It Works: To fit a bridge, the dentist must shave down the healthy enamel of the adjacent teeth to fit crowns over them. These two teeth then support the "floating" tooth in the middle.
The Downside:
The Verdict: A solid option if you cannot have surgery, but it comes at the cost of damaging your healthy neighboring teeth.
3. The Basic Option: Removable Dentures
Dentures (or "partials") are removable appliances that sit on top of your gums to fill the space.
How It Works: They usually clip onto remaining teeth with metal clasps or rely on suction to stay in place.
The Downside:
The Verdict: The most affordable short-term fix, but often the least comfortable long-term solution.
Summary: Why We Recommend Implants
While bridges and dentures fix the cosmetic gap, only dental implants address the medical reality of tooth loss. By preserving your bone and sparing your other teeth, implants are an investment in your future oral health.
Not sure which option is right for your specific case? Book a consultation with us today.
Why Choose 5000 Yonge Smiles, North York for Dental Implants?
We can walk you through the process and make it a seamless experience. At 5000 Yonge Smiles @North York, we have expertise in Dental Implants. We can make the process comfortable and efficient. Call us today to book an appointment and start your journey toward a healthier, long lasting smile!