Missing Teeth Replacement in San Diego, CA
Missing teeth can make it harder to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. At Apple Dental of San Diego, we offer bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures to restore your smile and protect your remaining teeth. Call (619) 236-9549 to schedule a consultation.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
Losing a tooth affects more than your appearance. When a gap is left open, the neighboring teeth can drift into the empty space, which changes your bite and makes those teeth harder to clean. The opposing tooth may also shift up or down. Over time, the jawbone in the area can shrink because it is no longer being stimulated by a tooth root. Missing teeth can make chewing and speaking more difficult and can cause the face to look older.
Common Causes of Tooth Loss
- Advanced gum disease that destroys the bone and tissue around teeth
- Severe tooth decay that leaves too little healthy tooth to repair
- Cracked or broken teeth that cannot be restored
- Injuries from sports, falls, or accidents
- Teeth that were never developed or that needed to be removed
Tooth Replacement Options at Our Office
Every patient’s needs are different. During your consultation, we evaluate your oral health, the number and location of missing teeth, and your goals and budget to recommend the right solution.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. Artificial teeth are anchored to crowns placed on the healthy teeth on either side of the space. Bridges are fixed in place, so they do not come out, and they look and feel natural.
Partial Dentures
When several teeth are missing but some healthy teeth remain, a partial denture replaces the missing teeth and attaches to your natural teeth for support. Partials are removable for easy cleaning and help keep your remaining teeth from shifting.
Full Dentures
If all the teeth in an arch are missing, full dentures restore your smile and your ability to eat and speak comfortably. Modern dentures are custom-made to fit your mouth and look natural.
Preparing for Tooth Replacement
Before we replace missing teeth, we make sure the rest of your mouth is healthy. This may include cleanings and exams, gum disease treatment, fillings, or the removal of damaged teeth. Our digital X-rays help us plan your treatment with precision.
Making Treatment Affordable
We accept most dental insurance plans, and our financial options include CareCredit and Sunbit financing. See our full list of dental services or learn about other conditions we treat.
Missing Teeth FAQs
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
Nearby teeth can shift into the gap, your bite can change, and the jawbone in the area can shrink over time. Missing teeth can also make chewing and speaking harder.
What are my options for replacing missing teeth?
Our office offers dental bridges, partial dentures, and full dentures. We will recommend the best option based on your oral health, goals, and budget.
What is the difference between a bridge and a partial denture?
A bridge is fixed in place and supported by crowns on the neighboring teeth. A partial denture is removable and clips onto your remaining natural teeth.
How long do dentures last?
With good care, dentures typically last several years. Over time, your mouth changes shape, so dentures may need to be adjusted, relined, or replaced.
How long does it take to get a dental bridge?
A bridge usually takes two visits. At the first, we prepare the supporting teeth and take impressions. At the second, we place your custom bridge.
Can I replace teeth lost to gum disease?
Yes. We first treat the gum disease to make sure your mouth is healthy, then recommend a bridge or denture to restore your smile.
Does insurance cover tooth replacement?
Many dental plans cover part of the cost of bridges and dentures. Our team can review your benefits, and we also offer financing through CareCredit and Sunbit.
Restore Your Complete Smile
Find the right tooth replacement option for your smile and budget. Call (619) 236-9549 or request an appointment online.