Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.
A tooth gap results from tooth loss – whether through an accident, tooth decay, periodontitis or a necessary tooth extraction. Whatever the cause, a tooth gap should not be left untreated permanently. In this guide, you will learn what options there are for closing a tooth gap and which solution might be the right one for you.
Why should a tooth gap be closed?
A tooth gap is more than an aesthetic problem. Untreated gaps can have far-reaching consequences:
- Tooth migration: The neighbouring teeth tilt into the gap and change the bite
- Over-eruption: The opposing tooth grows into the gap because there is no tooth to bite against
- Bone loss: Without loading, the jawbone recedes at the site of the gap
- Uneven loading: The remaining teeth are placed under greater strain, which can lead to further damage
- Speech problems: Pronunciation can be affected, especially with gaps in the front teeth
- Difficulty chewing: Missing molars make it harder to chew food thoroughly
Options for closing a tooth gap
Dental implant
A dental implant is regarded as a high-quality and long-lasting solution. An artificial tooth root made of titanium is placed in the jawbone, and a crown is fitted on top once it has healed in.
Advantages:
- Feels and functions like a natural tooth
- Neighbouring teeth do not need to be ground down
- Prevents bone loss at the site of the gap
- Durability: often many years with good care
Points to consider:
- Surgical procedure required
- Healing period of several months
- Higher costs than a bridge
- Sufficient jawbone must be present (bone augmentation may be necessary)
Dental bridge
A dental bridge is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. To do this, the neighbouring teeth must be ground down and crowned. The bridge spans the gap with a firmly connected pontic.
Advantages:
- No surgical procedure
- Shorter treatment time than with an implant
- Fixed, stable tooth replacement
- Partly covered by statutory health insurance
Points to consider:
- Neighbouring teeth must be ground down – even if they are healthy
- Bone loss under the bridge is not prevented
- Cleaning under the pontic requires special aids
Removable denture
For larger gaps or when several teeth are missing, a removable denture (partial denture) may be the solution. It is attached to the remaining teeth with clasps.
Advantages:
- The least expensive option
- No surgical procedure
- Can replace several gaps at the same time
- Can be extended if further teeth are lost
Points to consider:
- Less stable fit than fixed tooth replacement
- Clasps may be visible with gaps in the front teeth
- Must be taken out for cleaning
- Takes some getting used to
Orthodontic gap closure
In certain cases – particularly with smaller gaps or in younger patients – the neighbouring teeth can be moved into the gap with braces or aligners, in consultation with an orthodontist if required, without the need for tooth replacement.
Implant or bridge – which is better?
There is no blanket answer to this question. The best solution depends on your individual situation:
- Implant preferred if the neighbouring teeth are healthy and untreated, sufficient bone is present and a long-term solution is desired
- Bridge preferred if the neighbouring teeth already have crowns or large fillings, if a surgical procedure is not possible or not wanted, or if a quicker restoration is needed
At our practice, we advise you in detail on both options and draw up an individual treatment plan. Our in-house dental laboratory allows short treatment pathways for both types of restoration.
Costs of closing a gap
The costs vary depending on the type of restoration:
- Implant with crown: The costs depend on the material and the work involved. Statutory health insurance pays a fixed subsidy
- Bridge: Standard care is partly covered by the health insurance fund. Higher-quality materials require a co-payment
- Denture: Partial dentures as standard care are subsidised by the health insurance fund
Anyone who has kept their bonus booklet (Bonusheft) without any gaps receives a higher subsidy. We also offer the option of payment by instalments.
Advice in Düsseldorf
Do you have a tooth gap and would like to find out about your options? As a practice with a focus on implantology in Düsseldorf, we advise you personally. Make an appointment: 0211 – 497 67 69.
This article is for general information purposes and does not replace professional dental advice. If you have symptoms, please contact your dentist.
