If you have lost one or more teeth, there are many options for tooth replacement, so that you can feel better, regain functionality and smile confidently.
The most common way to replace a missing tooth is with a dental implant. If you have more than one tooth that needs replacing, a bridge may be more suitable for you, or dentures can replace an entire arch of teeth. Your dentist will help you decide from the following which is the best option for your circumstances and smile.
Dental Implants
Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. They form a strong foundation for artificial teeth, which look like and function as if they were your natural teeth. They are the most common solution to tooth loss and can be used as an alternative to a fixed bridge, dental crown, or denture.
Dental implants are titanium posts acting as artificial roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone under the gum near where the tooth used to be. They serve as anchors for replacement teeth, permanently affixed to the bone through crowns or abutments on top of each root.
Tooth implants are fitted under local anaesthesia by a trained oral surgeon.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace missing teeth by attaching replacement teeth (or false teeth) to existing healthy ones. A bridge is most appropriate when only one or two teeth are missing in an otherwise healthy mouth.
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthesis that fills the gap between two teeth or implants on either side of the space where a tooth has been lost. The bridge consists of false teeth anchored onto adjacent teeth or implants, which are then cemented in place.
Implant-Supported Bridge
Implant-supported bridges are very similar to traditional bridges, in that they both span an opening caused by missing teeth. However, implant bridges attach to small titanium posts embedded into the jaw rather than dental crowns placed over adjacent teeth. They are often referred to as “fixed” dental bridges because they are not removable and can remain in place permanently.
An implant bridge can last up to 10 years depending on how well it’s cared for. Many people find them more comfortable than traditional bridges because they don’t require wires connecting them together or being held in place by bulky attachments that press against the lips.
Dentures
If you have lost most or all of your teeth, dentures are a good option if you prefer them over multiple dental implants.
Conventional dentures typically replace an entire arch of teeth and rest on the gums. They are made to look like your natural teeth and are removable appliances that fit over the top and/or bottom gum ridges of your jawbone (the alveolar ridge.)
Dentures can be made of acrylic, metal, or plastic which are fitted to the shape of your gum line.
Some people may experience discomfort during this initial usage phase until they adapt. There is potential for dentures to wear over the years so maintenance is vital to longevity of the appliance.
Flipper: Temporary Dental Prosthesis
A flipper is a temporary dental prosthesis, often fabricated from plastic or metal, used as an option to replace missing teeth while a more permanent solution is crafted. It may be used when the loss of one or more teeth is imminent due to injury or disease, and it can help save your existing dental structure from further damage.
Seek Professional Dental Advice
Good dentists can provide plenty of teeth replacement options. If you’re not sure which one is right for you, then talk to your dentist about the pros and cons of each option. They will help guide you through this decision and make sure whatever treatment plan they recommend is the best choice for your specific needs.
