What are my options to replace a missing tooth or teeth?

If you are searching for options to replace missing teeth we are going to discuss that here. There are several factors to consider when choosing your best option these include the number of teeth to replace, the location of missing teeth, the state of your health, your budget, and time commitment. 

Three common options to replace a missing tooth (teeth):

• Bridge
• Implant
• Partial or Full Denture

Bridge

If you only have one or a few missing teeth a bridge is your more economical option. Bridges are anchored on one side or more. They have teeth that span across the area of the missing tooth or teeth. The area that spans the missing tooth/teeth has support on the sides, but not below. They are only supported on the sides by adjacent teeth, just like a bridge spans across the water.

You may feel a bit of flexion when you bite down. Bridges require meticulous oral hygiene to keep your mouth and bridge healthy because the empty space beneath the bridge is notorious for collecting food and debris. 

The upside is their ability to provide function, aesthetics, and cover an area of a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. 

Bridges can be attached to a natural tooth fitted with a crown with the bridge attached or to an implant(s). Sometimes implants are used along with bridges. Implants are a great option but if multiple teeth are missing it may not be feasible to replace each tooth with an implant. 

Dental Implants

Dental implants provide stability, beauty, and the most natural tooth-like feel, but they are more expensive because of their greater complexity and multiple appointments. Dental implants are a surgical treatment requiring the placement of a titanium post into the jaw bone. Ample time is given to allow for healing of the bone around the post, this can greatly vary from 3 months to a year. 

Once healing has occurred and after multiple appointments, your prosthetic new tooth or teeth will be placed. Dental implants are used to replace individual teeth or can be used to securely anchor bridges or dentures. If you want to know more about dental implants, check out our article here.

Dentures

If you are missing a greater number of teeth a partial or full denture maybe your best option. This will require removal of any unhealthy teeth if needed, and healing time. Then impressions will be taken after healing for a custom denture to skillfully be made for your mouth. 

Dentures too require good oral hygiene, and routine checkups to keep your gum tissue healthy, and to ensure everything is fitting well. Sometimes dentures are used in conjunction with implants to better anchor the denture into the mouth, especially if the patient doesn’t have adequate bony gum ridge to secure the denture.   

Conclusion

Your best option will be found after a thorough dental exam to assess your oral needs, health, and goals. If you are in the Salem area and looking for what’s right for you, feel free to reach out.