A healthy set of teeth is important. Not only does it give you a great smile but also plays an essential role in maintaining good overall health. Loss of a tooth of multiple teeth can affect you as it makes it difficult to chew food or speak well.
Fortunately, there are several options available to replace your missing tooth or teeth and restore your fantastic smile.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most common methods of tooth replacement. They are titanium posts that are surgically placed into your jawbone to hold artificial teeth in place. They can hold 2-3 crowns or bridges on top. They can be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, and they often look and feel like real teeth. If taken care of, they last for a long time. If you’re looking for a more permanent option than temporary dentures, dental implants are right for you.
Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge is a dental bridge made from porcelain and metal that bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth. The process of applying the bridge involves several trips to the dentist as placing the bridge in the location of missing teeth takes time. A fixed dental bridge feels looks and functions like natural teeth. It also does not need to be removed for cleaning and is more cost-effective than a dental implant. A fixed bridge is not recommended for people with more than five missing teeth as it may not fit well into place.
Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are dental appliance made of porcelain or plastic that consists of replacement teeth for a small section of missing teeth. They are held in place by clasps that attach to the existing teeth. Partial dentures are recommended for people with a few missing teeth. They help in restoring a natural smile and give patients the ability to chew food properly. They’re also one of the most affordable tooth replacement options and are easy to repair if damage occurs.
However, dentures are less durable than dental implants and can become uncomfortable when worn for a long time.
Implant-supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is recommended for multiple missing teeth in a row. With this bridge, teeth at the two ends are secured in place with implants. The teeth fit into the gap without any screwing. An implant-supported bridge is an affordable choice, provides a natural look, and is as effective as a dental implant. However, it can only be applied when there are several missing teeth in a row, and need to be replaced after some time.
Tooth-supported Bridge
A tooth-supported bridge is a less invasive tooth replacement option that uses your existing teeth to support the placement of a bridge. The procedure involves placing a crown on the teeth adjacent to the missing ones and cementing them into place. A tooth-supported bridge provides a natural look and feels and is a cheaper option compared to dental implants. However, the bridge requires adjacent teeth receiving the crowns to be filed to a particular size for the crown fit which can lead to infection.
Conclusion
No option fits all cases when it comes to replacing missing a single tooth or multiple teeth. The ideal option depends on the number of teeth to replace, your budget, and your goals. If you want a less invasive procedure that does not require surgery, tooth replacement options like removable partial dentures or tooth-supported bridges are recommended. If you’re looking for a more permanent option, dental implants are the best choice.
At Arrow Dental, our team of highly trained professionals can guide you toward the best replacement option for missing teeth. We’re committed to helping you and your family maintain great oral health.
