Choosing the best option for replacing a missing tooth is a personal decision. When a person loses a tooth, it's important to replace it as soon as possible. Not only can missing teeth affect someone's appearance and self-confidence, but they also prevent the natural progression of the jawbone, which may lead to other dental problems in the future. This article will discuss three options for replacing a missing tooth: implants, bridges, and dentures.
Understanding each option can help a person identify which solution is the best one for them. Each option comes with its own pros and cons that should be considered fully in order to achieve the best results and desired outcome for patients.
Dental implants are designed to replace missing teeth by integrating with the existing jawbone. Implants require surgery, but it is usually a quick procedure that only takes about an hour. This type of replacement tooth has many advantages, including being permanent and restoring function, aesthetics, chewing ability, speech clarity, positioning of adjacent teeth for proper closure when the mouth is closed, and retaining bone that would otherwise be lost.
Dental implants are best for patients with healthy gums and no poor oral hygiene. The surgery is more expensive compared to other options. Also, implants cannot be used for all patients because they require healthy bones to support the implant after it heals properly in the jawbone.
Dental implants may not be best for patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or other immune system problems. Speak with a dentist to learn if there are any limiting factors for this treatment option.
A dental bridge is a treatment option that looks like natural teeth with an artificial tooth in the middle to replace one or more missing teeth on either side of it. This procedure requires two crowns on adjacent teeth for support plus another temporary cap while the permanent replacement is being created. Once the final bridge is placed, it's cemented into place and looks just like the patient's natural teeth. Dental bridges are a good option if the patient has healthy adjacent teeth that can support them.
Dental bridges are best for patients who are not eligible for implants or want an alternative to dental implants. This treatment option is less expensive than dental implants but still more costly than dentures.
Dental bridges may not be best for patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or other immune system problems. A dentist can help identify if this is an appropriate solution for a patient with a particular medical history.
The third type of tooth replacement option for replacing a missing tooth is dentures. This involves placing complete or partial removable appliances that resemble natural teeth. Dentures are the least expensive option, but there is also a higher chance of bleeding or gum disease complications if they aren't taken care of properly. This procedure requires frequent visits to the dentist for adjustments and cleaning, so it doesn't cause any harm to the mouth.
Dentures are best for patients who do not have any other dental health problems that would prevent them from wearing dentures. This treatment is the most affordable option, but it's also associated with a higher risk of complications than implants and bridges. However, for some people the affordability makes this the only solution that they can afford to get their oral health back in order.
Dentures may not be best for patients with chronic health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or other immune system problems. A dentist will need to review a patient's medical history to ensure that this is a good solution to meet their needs without interfering with other health concerns.
Missing teeth can certainly wreak havoc on a person's life if left untreated for any period of time. Forutnately, there are many options for replacing missing teeth. Still, the final decision will depend on several factors such as the amount of remaining natural tooth structure the patient has, their medical history, ability to handle post-surgical pain, and discomfort if applicable during treatment planning. All of this should be considered fully before making an final determination.
Choosing the best option is a personal choice that depends on individual circumstances. A dentist can help patients decide which option is best for their needs.
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