Although entirely preventable, tooth loss is still a significant oral health issue throughout the U.S. Luckily, with the ever-advancing treatments and techniques in dentistry, individuals with missing teeth have more reliable options now than ever to help achieve a beautiful, restored smile.
Below we will discuss in greater detail the different replacement solutions available for addressing the many complications associated with missing teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants consist of body-safe, biocompatible titanium posts that are designed to replace the natural tooth root and are surgically inserted into the jawbone to support a restorative crown, bridge, or denture. They are the most ideal solution for replacing missing teeth that have been lost due to injury, periodontal disease, or other oral health problems.
Although dental implant treatment is more expensive than other replacement options available, it can be more cost-effective in the long term as implant restorations will not require replacement. Additionally, an implant provides essential jawbone stimulation, preserves jawbone, and gum tissue, and there is no need for the alteration of neighboring teeth for placement. Dental implants are also designed to last a lifetime when properly cared for.
Traditional Restorations
Conventional tooth replacement options do not utilize dental implants to help replace a missing tooth or lost teeth.
Bridges- a tooth-supported fixed bridge is the most common alternative to implant-supported restorations, particularly when a single tooth is missing. These prosthetics consists of two crowns, normally fitted onto neighboring teeth on each side of the gap which are also known as the abutment teeth. These abutment crowns are attached to the replacement teeth. A dental bridge is typically permanently secured in place by dental cement.
Partials- A non-implant-supported prosthetic, partial dentures are designed to replace one or more missing teeth in the same arch which may or may not be adjacent to one another. This type of restoration consists of an acrylic base which is sometimes strengthened with chrome metal framework and latches onto supporting teeth using metal clasps.
Dentures- complete denture appliances rest on top of the gums either using natural suction or an adhesive to stay in place. Dentures consist of an acrylic gum-colored base to which denture teeth are attached.
Implant-Supported Prosthetics
Once a patient has fully healed from their dental implant placement procedure, an implant-supported appliance is provided to complete and finalize treatment by being permanently affixed to the titanium post or posts.
Crowns- when replacing a single missing tooth, an implant-supported crown is ideal. This restoration can restore the natural structure of the tooth. Implant-supported crowns are affixed to dental implants, which provide long-lasting support and stability.
Bridges- similar to a traditional dental bridge, this implant-supported appliance utilizes the titanium posts instead of neighboring teeth to be securely held in place. This restoration is ideal for replacing several missing teeth in a row.
Dentures- for patients who have little to no remaining teeth left in an entire arch, an implant-supported denture will be the most viable solution. Similar to their traditional counterparts, implant-supported dentures utilize a series of dental implant posts to remain securely in place while replacing an entire detention of missing teeth.
Ultimately, you should schedule an initial consultation with your trusted dental professional to find out which tooth replacement option will best benefit your smile. The entire team at Candlewood Family Dental encourages you to call our Brookfield, CT office today!