It is generally thought these days that dental implants are a much more effective method of replacing single missing teeth. In the past it was more common for single missing teeth to be replaced by a three unit bridge where the teeth on either side of the gap were required to be reduced in size and reshaped in order for the bridge to be fitted over the top. The problem with this method is the risk of the health of the surrounding gum tissue and could in the long run lead to periodontal desease if the bridge is not cleaned properly. Dental bridges must be cleaned with specialised dental cleaning equipment as opposed to dental implants which can be brushed and flossed like natural teeth.

Dental implants are titanian cylinders which are implanted into the bone and require a certain amount of healing time in order for the bone to heal around them, locking them in like an anchor. When the healing process is complete a wider post is attached to the implant and the new tooth will be attached to the second post. 

Dental implants not only serve as a way of making your smile more attractive but have a big affect on chewing ability and therefore nutrition and general health.