Are you missing one or more teeth and wondering what your options are for restoring your smile? Missing teeth can not only affect your appearance but can lead to significant oral health problems such as bone loss, shifting of teeth, bite problems, and difficulty in eating. So, whether the result of tooth decay, gum disease, or accident, tooth loss should be addressed promptly to maintain optimal oral health and well-being.
In this page, we will explore three primary options for replacing missing teeth一 dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures. By the end of the read, you should have a better understanding of the pros and cons of each and a clear idea of which option might be right for you.
Dental Implants
Considered as the gold standard in teeth replacement, dental implants are a permanent solution that can replicate the appearance and function of your natural tooth. A single implant is composed of three main components:
- Titanium post – which acts as the tooth root and is surgically placed into the jawbone
- Abutment – this is a connector that links the post to the artificial tooth
- Crown – a prosthetic tooth that blends with the rest of your teeth for a natural smile
Benefits of Dental Implants
There are several reasons that make dental implants stand out among the other options:
- Preserves jawbone – Implants stimulate bone to prevent bone loss and maintain bone support
- Maintains integrity of other teeth – Implants do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support
- Improves chewing and speech – Stability of the implant helps you eat, speak, and chew with confidence
- Long-lasting – With good care, implants can last over 20 years
- Versatile – Implants are an excellent choice whether you are missing just one tooth or a full set of teeth
Procedure and Recovery Time
The dental implant process involves a few stages, usually it is divided into three phases. First, the surgical placement of the implant into the bone. Then, you have to wait 3 – 6 months to allow healing and for osseointegration of the implant. This process is crucial for treatment success as it permanently fuses the implant to your jawbone. Lastly, your dentist will place your abutment and final crown restoration to complete your brand new smile.
Considerations and Costs
Not everyone is a good implant candidate – Proper screening is important to ensure your eligibility. Ideally, you should be of good oral and general health, have sufficient bone density, and are a non-smoker. You may need to explore other options or undergo pre-surgical preparations (as in bone grafts to address insufficient bone) if these criteria are not met.
Implants can be quite expensive – A single dental implant starts at $3,000. This can still vary depending on the complexity of the case.
Implants come with risk – As with other procedures, implants may come with concerns if there is no proper planning. Although rare, some risks include infection and implant failure.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device that is used to “bridge” gaps between teeth caused by one or more missing teeth. The adjacent teeth, called abutments, are used as anchors to position the bridge.
Types of Dental Bridges
- Traditional Bridge – this is the most common type. It uses two adjacent teeth on both sides of the gap to support an artificial crown in the middle
- Maryland Bridge – using a metal or porcelain framework to bond to the back of the adjacent teeth, this type of bridge requires less alteration to the abutments
- Implant-Supported Bridge – this is anchored by dental implants on both ends to secure the bridge in place
Benefits of Dental Bridges
If you are looking to get this option, here are some of the benefits you can enjoy:
- Fixed in the mouth – Dental bridges should stay in place even as you chew and speak, making them a comfortable choice
- Cost-effective – They are typically more affordable than implants
- Faster process – The treatment involves a quick turnaround time for quicker results
- Aesthetic and functional restoration – The material for a dental bridge can be made using the strongest (zirconia) or most natural-looking (porcelain) material
Procedure and Recovery Time
The process for a traditional dental bridge starts by preparing the surrounding teeth, or abutments, to receive the bridge. These are reduced to a smaller size to make room and support the bridge. Then, impressions are taken to create a mould that will be sent to the dental lab where your bridge will be made. Once the bridge is ready, it is cemented in place. The recovery time is minimal, though some patients may experience minor sensitivity in the first few days.
Considerations and Costs
Good, healthy abutment teeth are important – The long-term stability of a dental bridge depends on the abutment teeth. So, these teeth should be strong and well-supported with healthy bone.
Average cost – A dental bridge starts at $2,000, with some variation depending on the material to be used and the number of teeth involved.
Compromises healthy teeth – However, because healthy abutments are needed for a bridge, the alteration required for the treatment compromises the integrity of these teeth.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetics that can replace multiple missing teeth. Partial dentures fill in gaps where only a few teeth are missing, while full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower jaw.
Benefits of Dentures
- Affordable – this is usually the most cost-effective option for tooth replacement
- Non-invasive – no surgery or tooth alteration required
- Easy to adjust – dentures may be easily adjusted for a better fit
Procedure and Recovery Time
The process for getting dentures is very straightforward. First, impressions of the mouth are taken and sent to the dental lab so they can create your customized dentures. When ready, your dentures are fitted and adjusted accordingly to ensure a comfortable fit. There is no surgery or tooth alternation involved, so there should be no recovery time. But, patients will need a few days to get used to wearing and caring for their new dentures.
Considerations and Costs
Patient-friendly options – Dentures are suitable for a wide range of options with multiple missing teeth.
Budget-friendly – Dentures start at $700, depending on the number of missing teeth. This makes them the most affordable option.
Not as efficient in the long-term – However, the problem with dentures is that they may require adjustment or replacement as they naturally loosen over time. This can eventually cause difficulty in chewing or speaking.
Conclusion
Replacing missing teeth is essential for maintaining both your oral health, confidence, and overall well-being. But with many options available, how do you choose? It is important to consider factors such as your aesthetic preferences, oral health status, lifestyle and budget considerations, and the long-term viability of your teeth replacement option.
Overall, it is always best to consult with a dental professional. They will understand your smile goals and determine the most suitable option for you.
If you have missing teeth, our team at Chinook Dental Group can help you explore your options! Contact us today to schedule your consultation.