Q. Many years ago I lost one of my front teeth in an accident and had a bridge fitted. Over the years my gums shrunk and it looked awful. Although I do look after my teeth (brushing regularly and going to the dentist every six months) I have terrible teeth with alot of gum shrinkage, and alot of teeth missing so my existing teeth have moved and I have alot of gaps. Less than 12 months ago I had a new bridge fitted – I am very unhappy with it as it was fitted slightly crooked and the teeth stick out further than they used to, even worse my gum has already shrunk away from the bridgework. I have big teeth with many gaps in them and they look really awful. If I have implants will my gums shrink away – do you think dentures would be better for me. How do I find a good cosmetic dentist that I can trust. I smoke which I know is bad for my gums.