Having one tooth missing is a real inconvenience, but losing multiple teeth can feel like a challenge that's impossible to overcome. Whether you've lost the teeth due to injury, disease, or lifestyle factors, there are ways to restore your smile to its former glory. While solutions like traditional bridges aren't an option when you have multiple teeth missing side-by-side, there are plenty of other treatments that can work just as well. Read on for full details on the available solutions - you'll soon be grinning again.

Full or Partial Dentures

Depending on the number of teeth you're missing, full or partial dentures may be a good option. If you're only missing two or three teeth, a partial denture can be used to fill in the gaps, without any need for teeth to be removed. If you're missing the majority of your teeth, and the remaining teeth aren't in great condition, having a full denture fitted might be your best bet. Your remaining teeth will be extracted, and a specially-designed denture will be fitted to your mouth, allowing you to talk, eat and smile with no problems.

Implant-Supported Bridges

If dentures don't appeal to you but you're missing multiple teeth around your mouth, implant-supported bridges could be a good choice. Unlike traditional bridges, which are attached to your existing teeth, dental implants are put in place to support these bridges. That means you'll need two separate operations - one to put in the implants, and then another to fit the bridges. Although the process is a little involved, the finished result will feel very similar to having your natural teeth back. You'll need to take good care of your bridges to ensure they last well and stay in good condition.

Cantilever Bridges

Are you missing two teeth in a row? That means that traditional bridges won't work since they're attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. However, Cantilever bridges work by attaching a bridge to a tooth on only one side, meaning they'll work for two missing teeth side by side. However, there is a risk that this can put too much strain on the teeth the bridges are attached to, which increase the risk of fractures. Consider all the options, take the risks into account and talk to your dentist before making a decision.

Feeling hopeless about the fact that you're missing multiple teeth? Even when traditional options aren't possible, there are plenty of other ways to restore your smile, so don't despair.