Best Ways to Replace Missing Teeth
When one or more teeth are lost, it affects the health and beauty of a smile. With the latest advancement in dentistry, there are a number of ways to replace teeth.
Whether looking for permanent solutions or ones that are removable, patients have the options for a variety of restorations and prosthetics unique to their lifestyle.
Fixed Bridges
Fixed bridges can replace up to a row of three teeth. Made up of a variety of materials like porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal, fixed bridges can be used in both anterior and posterior teeth.
These restorations use the support of neighboring teeth to keep the fake tooth in place. The teeth supporting the bridge are capped with a porcelain crown leaving the pontic suspended over the empty space.
Although inexpensive, it doesn’t support the health of surrounding teeth nor does it restore the missing tooth root. The supporting teeth, which are relatively healthy, must be altered to be fitted with a crown.
Partials
Partials replace more than one tooth and are made up of either a flexible or a sturdy metal base. Partial dentures slide into place and secure to back or front teeth or remain in place with adhesives. This prosthetic can be customized using a variety of materials and designed to look as natural as possible. However, just like fixed bridges, they only replace the crowns teeth.
Dentures
For patients missing an entire arch, dentures are a traditional restoration option. Similar to partials, these can be customized to match the patient’s look.
Dentures require adhesives to be kept in place. Additionally, as the jaw changes due to lack of support from the loss of tooth roots, they must be altered to fit the changing shape.
Dental Implants
Implant dentistry is an innovative treatment that replaces not just the crown but the tooth roots as well. Biocompatible titanium implant posts are surgically placed into the jaw. Once integrated, restorations such as fixed bridges, partials, and crowns can be attached to the implants and restore the entire missing tooth.
Although more expensive than the other methods, it offers life-long benefits that outweigh the costs.
If you are looking to replace missing teeth, contact our office today.