Tooth Replacement Options

There are a number of tooth replacement options out there, and each has its benefits and drawbacks for different situations. Some are best for replacing one missing tooth, while others can replace multiple. It is of course most important for you to talk with your dentist about these options. Your dentist will be able to examine your oral health situation and tell you which options you qualify for.

What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?

Bridges

Dental bridges have been around for a long time, and they are a more traditional way of replacing missing teeth. A dental bridge can solve the problem of one or more neighboring missing teeth by utilizing the natural teeth on either side of the gap as anchors for a fake tooth “bridge.” These adequately fill the gaps with fake teeth that look, feel, and function completely naturally, and they can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

The drawbacks to conventional bridges are that they require the sacrifice of the two anchoring natural teeth. Those teeth will be filed down and have strong crowns placed on them in order to provide sufficient support for the fake tooth or teeth between them. This can cause further dental problems down the road, as those two teeth are taking the pressure of each other and the fake tooth or teeth they support. Their integrity can sometimes be worn down and compromised over the years if all precautions aren’t taken. You will also have to floss with a special flosser, as the teeth will be connected at the sides. But because of the danger to the two anchoring teeth, thorough flossing becomes especially necessary. A dental bridge will also only fill the gaps and act as a placeholder; it won’t prevent the bone loss that accompanies missing teeth.

Dental Implants

As far as tooth replacement options go, dental implants are certainly the number one choice, if not the most expensive choice. A dental implant will not only act as a placeholder, but it will also prevent bone loss. Dental implants function much like a natural tooth root, as they are each made of a small, specially designed titanium screw that is implanted firmly into the jawbone, where the metal actually fuses into the bone structure. A single fake tooth can be placed on top, or a dental implant can be the anchor for a dental bridge, if multiple neighboring teeth are missing. Dental implants will last you a lifetime, with proper care.

The drawbacks of dental implants include the high price and eligibility. Not everyone can qualify for dental implants, as it is required for you to have sufficient bone density in order for the implant to hold. If you don’t have enough bone matter but require a dental implant, your only solution is a bone graft. A bone graft will give you sufficient jawbone density, but it will add a second surgical procedure, more money and appointments, and a longer healing process.

Cheaper Temporary Options

There are other kinds of dental bridges, including acid-etched bridges and chairside bonded bridges which don’t compromise your natural anchoring teeth, but will only last ten years at most, often falling out after five. These options are certainly cheaper, however, so remember to ask your dentist about all of your tooth replacement options, and the prices associated with them.