When missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, replacing them is always the best option for aesthetic, functional, and emotional reasons. If missing teeth are not replaced, your ability to speak, chew and drink can greatly decrease. Additionally, missing teeth may eventually cause alignment, support and other significant jaw and bite issues.
There are numerous approaches to replacing missing teeth, depending upon your physical, financial and time restraints. Three of the most common solutions are dental implants, fixed partial dentures, and removable partial dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most popular tooth replacement options, as they provide the closest alternative to your natural teeth and are the only permanent solution.
Pros:
-Aesthetically appealing, functional and permanent
-Keeps jawbone stimulated, which helps to provide a solid foundation for your remaining teeth
-Minimizes risk of gum disease
Cons:
-Higher up-front investment, but due to its longevity, is likely one of the most cost-effective long-term solutions
-Considered surgery, requires anesthesia and longer healing time
Fixed Partial Denture
Also called a fixed bridge, a fixed partial denture uses the two teeth on either side of the missing tooth as support to a permanent false tooth.
Pros:
-Allows for normal function and appearance
-Less waiting time for treatment than implants
-Less healing time than implants
-Less expensive than implants
Cons:
-Neighboring teeth are permanently reshaped to fit the crowns
-Greater chance of tooth decay
Removable Partial Denture
Removable partial dentures are a set of artificial teeth anchored in plastic that is constructed to look like gum tissue. It has hooks that connect to your remaining natural teeth to stay in place.
Pros:
-Allows for normal function and appearance
-Least expensive (of the three)
-Can be removed for cleaning
Cons:
-Greater chance of gum disease and tooth decay
-May loosen natural teeth
-May cause some discomfort
-May need to be refitted with time
All three of these are viable and available solutions, depending on your health, time constraints and financial circumstances.
We welcome your questions. Please call 303.720.7465 or email [email protected] for more information.
Source: https://www.deardoctor.com/dentistry/blog/you-have-options-for-replacing-a-lost-tooth
