Teeth are an important part of a person’s body. A healthy set of teeth not only help you have a fantastic smile, but also helps you maintain a better overall health. Missing teeth can make everyday tasks like eating and speaking a lot more difficult. Fortunately, there are solutions to this problem! This blog will go over 5 dental options for replacing missing teeth.
Reports by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) have shown that 92% of adults between the ages of 20 – 64 suffer from tooth decay. Comparably, the number of individuals who suffer from missing teeth is predominantly large as well. Luckily, there are a couple of different solutions to this problem with today’s dental advancements. Options available for those who have missing teeth include:
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a surgical procedure where replacement teeth are placed and fused with the jawbone. Dental implants are an excellent option for replacing a missing tooth as they look and feel like real teeth. They’re stable and allow people to eat resistant food, similar to how they did with their natural teeth. Dental implants can last for years or even decades without the need for repair or replacement. While this procedure works well for replacing a single tooth, it may not be the best option for replacing multiple teeth. This procedure is also more costly and requires more time than other options such as bridges or dentures.
Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth. This procedure usually involves multiple trips to the dentist as it requires:
- The process of placing the implant
- Customizing the bridge
- Placing the bridge in location
A fixed ridge looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth. It does not require removal for cleaning and is typically less expensive than dental implants.
Resin-Retained Bridge
A resin-retained bridge is usually less invasive than a fixed bridge. While a fixed bridge is better for teeth that are often used for eating, a resin-retained bridge can be a good alternative for missing teeth that are not usually used for chewing as they don’t endure much pressure. A resin-retained bridge gets attached onto the neighboring teeth on each side. Although they are less sturdy than the previous options mentioned above, they are significantly less expensive.
Removable Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture is usually for the replacement of a small section of missing teeth. They look and function like regular teeth. Although this option is great for aesthetic appeal and chewing, they are notably less durable than a tooth implant or a bridge. They can also become uncomfortable when worn for an extended amount of time. Removable partial dentures are typically the least expensive tooth replacement option currently available. They don’t require many visits to the dentist and are easy to repair if any damage occurs.
Complete Removable Dentures
Depending on the number of teeth you have, a complete removable denture can be invasive and require multiple visits to the dentist. Unlike a removable partial denture, where only a specific section of teeth is replaced, removable complete dentures are used to replace the majority, if not all of your teeth. This option provides both aesthetic and functional benefits, but they can be uncomfortable and are not meant to be worn for 24 hours a day.
Consult Your Dentist to Determine the Best Option for You
It is vital that you consult with your dentist before making a final decision on how you’re going to replace your missing teeth. There are many factors that are unique to each person that needs to be analyzed and considered before going with a procedure. We hope this blog helped you explore the 5 dental options for replacing missing teeth. All options are viable options for replacing missing teeth. At Dental Arts, we’re here to help you get your smile back! Let us help you figure out the best dental option for you. Give us a call at (619) 444-1001 or click here to book an appointment today! We are located at 707 Arnele Avenue, El Cajon, CA 92020.
