A Dentist Explains the Different Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

A Dentist Explains the Different Options for Replacing Missing Teeth from Modern Smiles Family Dentistry in Phoenix, AZWithin the past few decades, advances in dentistry have resulted in many options for replacing missing teeth. While all of these options help restore functionality and appearance to a person’s mouth, they also differ in several ways. Depending on a patient’s dental history and lifestyle, one replacement option may be better suited for them than the others.

Here are the four most common options for replacing missing teeth:

  • Dental implants
  • Implant-supported bridges
  • Tooth-supported bridges
  • Dentures

Although the field continues to advance, each of these options has its own strengths and weaknesses. Talking with your dentist is one of the best ways to learn about your available options for replacing missing teeth.

Dental implants

Dental implants are recommended for those who want to replace a tooth with a single, secure replacement that can last a lifetime. Dental implants consist of two components: a metal screw that is inserted into the gum or jawbone and an artificial tooth that is attached to the screw. Surgery is required to place the screw, and adequate jawbone density is required for screws inserted into the jawbone. Dental implants are more expensive to insert than other options for replacing missing teeth but can last for the rest of a patient’s life.

Implant-supported bridges

Bridges are recommended over dental implants for patients that are missing multiple teeth in a row. Instead of replacing each missing tooth with an implant, an implant-supported bridge uses two implants to restore a gap of missing teeth. The two implants are inserted on either side of the gap, and the bridge is attached between the implants to replace the missing teeth. While an implant-supported bridge is less secure than a dental implant, the procedure is less costly and invasive than replacing each missing tooth with an implant.

Tooth-supported bridges

In a tooth-supported bridge, teeth are used instead of implants to secure the bridge. Crowns are attached to the abutment teeth or the teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge is then cemented to the crowns. A tooth-supported bridge is a great option for patients that do not have the required jawbone density to receive an implant or do not wish to undergo surgery.

Dentures

Dentures can be used to replace up to a full set of a patient’s teeth. Dentures do not require surgery or a procedure to insert, making them the most affordable of the options for replacing missing teeth. However, dentures also must be removed daily from the patient’s mouth for cleaning and can lead to jawbone degradation.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Options for Replacing Missing Teeth in Phoenix, AZ

Choosing the right tooth replacement

Consult your dentist for guidance in choosing the right tooth replacement. Your dentist will conduct an interview and a dental exam to determine which option suits you. Dental implants are the most secure option but require healthy gum and jawbone tissue. Implant-supported and tooth-supported bridges can replace multiple teeth at a time, and dentures are an affordable option for those who wish to avoid surgery.

Request an appointment or call Modern Smiles Family Dentistry at 602-362-7065 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.

Recent Posts

Dental Implant Options For Replacing Missing Teeth

There are several dental implant options for replacing missing teeth. A dental implant permanently replaces a missing tooth, saving smiles and helping people eat their favorite foods for years to come. Unlike other options for replacing missing teeth, dental implants do not require regular check-ups from a dentist.The three most common types of dental implants…

Options For Replacing Missing Teeth: Are Partial Dentures Easier To Care For Than Dentures?

Dentures are a removable option for replacing missing teeth that can provide the wearer with either a full or partial set of false replacement teeth. Your best choice depends on the number of natural teeth that need to be replaced. In either case, a crucial aspect of successful denture wearing is proper care and hygiene…

Dentist Consult For Options For Replacing Missing Teeth

Dentist consultations are a great place to learn more about options for replacing missing teeth. There are several different options for replacing missing teeth. During a consultation, a dentist will help you determine the treatment option that best suits your health and circumstances, guiding you towards a healthier future for your smile.A dentist consultation should…

Recent Posts

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Fix Common Dental Issues

How Cosmetic Dentistry Can Fix Common Dental Issues

Cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular as more people use these procedures to improve their smiles and self-confidence. While this type of dentistry is often associated with purely aesthetic improvements, it can also help address many common dental issues. This article will explore how cosmetic dentistry can help improve your smile and overall oral health.Cosmetic…

Cosmetic Dentistry For Worn Teeth With Crowns

Cosmetic Dentistry For Worn Teeth With Crowns

Cosmetic dentistry can treat worn-down teeth. Using dental crowns can enhance your smile and oral health. Many people choose to have crowns or caps for their worn-down teeth. Caps have a high level of durability and aesthetic quality. If you want to know how cosmetic dentistry uses crowns to restore worn teeth, here are the…