When you need to replace only a single missing tooth, you may opt for a removable partial denture, a three unit bridge, or a dental implant. The removable partial denture consists of an artificial tooth affixed to a plastic structure made to look like your gums. This partial denture is fastened in place using metal or plastic clasps, effectively replacing your single missing tooth. However, the metal often used in this appliance is sometimes visible, which some patients may find unsatisfactory. A three unit bridge relies upon your natural teeth to anchor your tooth replacement into place. With this method, three joined crown units are shaped and shaded to match your teeth. The middle unit spans the space of your single missing tooth while the two end units are cemented to your natural teeth. This method is natural looking and permanent, however your natural teeth must be reshaped to accommodate the crowns. A dental implant may also be utilized to replace a single missing tooth. Each implant has a titanium post which functions as a tooth root, a dental crown created to look like the surrounding teeth, and an abutment that connects the two. There is no replacement method that is a closer replication of your natural tooth than the effect achieved by Dr. Bissell with a dental implant procedure near Chester, NJ.