Visiting a restorative dentist in Framingham, MA is a great way to solve the problem of a missing tooth. Learn more here.

Did you know that over one-third of Americans are missing at least one tooth? While it can seem like a low-priority medical issue, missing teeth can have major health consequences. It can create bite and jaw issues, disrupt nutritional intake, and cause severe mouth infections.

From accidents and decay to gum disease, permanent teeth don’t always last a lifetime.

There is good news! You can easily avoid long-term health impacts by investing in restorative dentistry. Your local dentist in Framingham, MA should be able to provide a range of affordable options to replace missing teeth. 



Keep reading to learn more about what restorative dental options are available to replace a missing tooth. From implants to dentures, there are a number of services that might be the right fit for you or a member of your family.

What Is Restorative Dentistry?

There’s a reason why teeth come in a set—even one missing tooth can throw off the delicate balance in your mouth. That’s where restorative dentistry comes in.

Unlike cosmetic dentistry that focuses on the overall look of your smile, restorative dentistry improves the appearance of your teeth and their function. These procedures can restore chewing ability, protect your good health, and save you money in the long term.

While restorative procedures can be expensive, the best dentist should be able to offer you a range of services and payment plans.

Because replacing teeth is not considered a cosmetic procedure, insurance coverage is often available for this type of dental care. If you are wondering about restorative dentistry, the best place to start is by consulting your local dentist.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are the most common method of tooth replacement. They are long-lasting, durable, and provide a permanent solution for a missing tooth.

An implant creates a realistic-looking tooth by using an artificial root (or metal post) and crown. A crown is a dental cap that restores the tooth’s size, shape, and appearance. Cemented in place, the crown encircles the metal post and is fixed in place.

This combination makes the implant look and feel natural in your mouth.

Implants are usually the most expensive option because they are a high-quality and resilient solution that attaches to the jawbone. They are a cost-effective investment if you consider the long-term benefits.

Depending on the situation, implants can also work with a bridge or partial denture. Getting dental implants is a lengthy process. It can take multiple appointments and depending on your local dentist a few months to fully complete.



It's always a great idea to get a consultation and estimate before making a decision about investing in an implant. Considering their lifetime benefit, the price may surprise you.

Dental Bridges

This is a popular and well-established solution to literally bridge gaps in your smile. Bridges remove spaces in your mouth created by missing or shifting teeth.

Dental bridges use prosthetic teeth. Secured to surrounding teeth or a metal post, this option can replace one or more teeth in a single procedure. This is an affordable option—especially if you are missing multiple teeth in the same area.

Bridges attached to existing teeth don’t require any oral surgery. A well-made customized bridge will have the same size, look, color, and strength as natural teeth. 

It’s extremely important to find the best dentist for this procedure because an ill-fitting bridge can damage permanent teeth and be hard to clean. 



While porcelain bridges are a less expensive restorative service, they are not a permanent solution. Bridges will eventually have to be replaced and you may have to pay for them multiple times.

Partial Dentures

Modern dentures have evolved to feel and look as natural as possible. They are the cheapest option for replacing missing teeth and do not require oral surgery.

Partial dentures replace missing teeth with prosthetics. Similar to a full denture, they attach to your existing teeth with a clip and are removable. Attached with gum-colored acrylic, partial dentures snap into place and eliminate the need for adhesives.



Prosthetic teeth make sure that your remaining teeth stay in place. This also prevents teeth from drifting and disrupting the mouth's alignment.

There are also options for permanent dentures, depending on where the missing teeth are in your mouth. This procedure utilizes a combination of dentures and dental implants that attach to and stimulate a healthy jawbone.

The best dentist will help you figure out whether a partial denture, permanent denture, or full denture is the best fit for you. 

The main drawbacks of dentures are the visible clasps on your existing teeth and that they have to be removed and cleaned daily.

Porcelain Dental Crown

If you are looking to avoid replacing a missing tooth, a porcelain crown is a quicker and preventative dental care option that can help you maintain your oral health. The crown is usually a two-visit procedure that can save a tooth and help you save money in the long term. 

Crowns correct a fractured, decayed, weak, or infected tooth. By fixing damaged teeth, you can avoid a dental emergency or extensive restorative dentistry down the road. 



Porcelain crowns can also be used to improve the overall look of your smile. They can cover aging, discolored, or a weirdly shaped tooth. 

Find a Dentist in Framingham, MA

There are so many restorative dentistry procedures that can immediately improve your quality of life. If you, or a family member, are missing a tooth, today is a great day to look for a new dentist. 

If you are trying to find a local dentist in Framingham, MA, Atlantis Dental provides comprehensive dental solutions for the entire family.

From restorative, emergency, cosmetic, and general dentistry, we can be with you for every step of your dental journey.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can put our experience and expertise to work for you.