1. Should we replace missing teeth? Why?
   Yes missing teeth should always be replaced. If the missing front teeth are not replaced, it affects the look of the person and also has a psychological impact. If missing back teeth are not replaced, it results in a myriad of problems which can be explained by the figure given below.
   
   Further more the joint which is responsible for opening and closing the mouth during speaking, swallowing & eating will also be affected.
   Effect of tooth loss:
   a. Drifting of the neighbouring teeth b. Over eruption of opposing teeth c. Loss of tooth contacts d. Trauma to supporting structures of tooth e. Recession of gingiva f. Caries
   g. Pocketing h. Premature contact
   
2. What are the common means of replacing missing teeth?
   Missing teethmay be replaced by a Fixed Partial Denture (FPD) or removable denture. A FPD is commonly called bridge. This is normally made with metal and ceramic (porcelain) which bond to one another. These are different types in bridges.
   A removable denture may be partial or complete. A removable partial denture (RPD) is given, when a bridge is not a ideal choice for the patient. It is made in acrylic (a type of plastic) or cast in a metal which is well accepted by the body. A complete denture (CD) may be needed when no teeth are left in the mouth.
   Sometimes a CD is made with support of two or more teeth left behind. The artificial teeth used in CD is made of acrylic and are of varying types
3. Why do gums bleed?
   Commonly speaking bleeding gums may be due to unhealthy gums caused by the deposition of tartar around and under the gums. Bleeding gums can also be arise due to some improper contact of the opposing teeth and of deficiency of Vitamin C
   
4. Why do some teeth pain during intake of cold foods and hot foods?
   Unattended decay, tends to eat away the "enamel" of teeth. The next layer of teeth is called dentrine which is highly sensitive to extremes of temperature. This situation might give rise to sharp pain, when exposed to temperature. Left unattended it may give rise to more serious problems.
5. What can be done about the gap present between two front upper teeth?
   The gap can be closed absolutely well to give a natural look. Depending on the size of the gap it may be treated with composite (a tooth color material), or crowns (ceramic or metal + ceramic) or laminates (a thin covering using ceramic). The gap may also be closed using certain type of braces (Orthodontic Treatment)