When a tooth or teeth are lost and not replaced, your teeth can drift from their correct position. This drifting can cause many undesirable consequences such as jaw pain and headaches from malocclusion (a bad bite alignment). Drifting of teeth can make certain areas more susceptible to decay. Problems with the supporting structures of your teeth (gum and bone) can arise from the shifting of teeth as they try to fill a vacant area.
In order to prevent the drifting of teeth, a fixed bridge may be recommended. This will return your masticatory (chewing) system to a full complement of teeth. The teeth can then support each other and function beautifully together.

The loss of a single tooth can have a major impact on your dental health and personal appearance. Your teeth support and rely on each other. When one or more teeth are missing, the remaining teeth can shift out of their normal position. Teeth adjacent to the space or from the opposite jaw will often drift or tilt. These teeth are often more susceptible to decay and gum disease because they are more difficult to clean around. All of this shifting and drifting will lead to changes in the bite, which may put stress on the jaws, muscles and teeth. Ultimately, your ability to chew comfortably and your appearance may be affected.

If tooth loss occurs, your dentist may recommend that a bridge be placed. Broadly speaking a bridge can take one of two forms:

• Conventional

• Adhesive