Is Tooth Replacement an Impossible Task?

Speaking and chewing becomes difficult when you lose a tooth that once allowed you to show off a beautiful smile and a healthy set of teeth. 92 percent of adults between the ages of 20 and 64 suffer from tooth decay and the number of individuals suffering from tooth loss is a significant number as well. Fortunately, advances in dentistry are providing us with many solutions for missing teeth.

Unlike in the past when the only option available was dentures numerous options are now available if you have missing teeth in your mouth. As long as you are willing to choose carefully for the tooth replacement you want finding a suitable option should not be considered impossible. Let us look at a few options that you can consider after discussing the same with your dentist.

Fixed Bridge

A fixed Bridge can bridge the gap between one or more missing teeth. You must be prepared for multiple visits to the dentist’s office as placing the bridge in the location of the missing teeth requires some time. However, after it is in place the fixed Bridge functions, looks, and feels like your natural teeth. It does not need to be removed for cleaning and is a cost-effective option than a dental implant.

Resin Retained Bridge

This option is less invasive than a fixed bridge. It is more suitable for the missing front teeth which are not subjected to extensive pressure. A fixed bridge, on the other hand, works better on the molars that are often relied upon for chewing. Resin retained bridges are attached to the adjacent teeth on either side. Despite being known as nondurable as compared to a fixed bridge, resin retained bridges are more affordable than their counterparts.

Removable Partial Denture

A removable partial denture consists of tooth replacement options for a small section of missing teeth while looking and functioning normally. A removable partial denture is great for chewing and aesthetic appeal but is not as durable as a tooth implant or bridge and can cause discomfort when worn for an extended period. However, they are the most affordable option for dental replacement and are easy to repair if damaged because of any reason.

Removable Complete Denture

Removable complete dentures can be fairly invasive and need multiple visits to the dentist depending on the number of natural teeth remaining in your mouth. They are unlike a removable partial denture where only a section of missing teeth is replaced. A removable complete denture can be used to replace most teeth. This option is certainly functional while also being aesthetic but can cause discomfort and must not be worn for 24 hours a day.

Dental Implant

A dental implant requires a surgical procedure in which a titanium post is inserted into the jawbone to serve as a replacement tooth root and allowed to integrate with the jawbone. Dental implants are considered as a good option for replacing a single tooth but may have some drawbacks when trying to replace multiple teeth. Having said that we must also mention the dental implants are aesthetically pleasing because they look and feel like natural teeth and can last for years if not decades. Replacements and repairs are not a common feature with dental implants. However, they may not be the right option for everyone because they require patients to be in good physical health for the surgery and recovery and generally cost more than dentures or bridges. Tooth replacement with a dental implant is perhaps the most invasive treatment even though it is the best solution for missing teeth.

Consulting Your Dentist to Find the Best Tooth Replacement Option for You

Rather than decide for yourself it is suggested that you discuss the options available with Engineered Smiles in Marietta, GA, before making a decision. The five options presented are reliable and effective for replacing missing teeth but discussing the options with a qualified professional is the best way of ensuring you get the specific treatment you are looking for.

Just because you have lost a tooth or several teeth in your mouth there is no need for you to panic as tooth replacements are not difficult to find in the present-day. As long as you overcome your fear of the dentist and approach them for a solution you can rest assured you will soon have your smile back to begin moving around confidently.