Introduction 

A healthy set of teeth is desired by everyone as it not only helps you to smile with confidence but also speak clearly and be able to eat properly. However, Missing Teeth is also very common and can be a result of many factors like gum disease, injury, severe tooth decay, or a genetic condition. 

Regardless of the reason for the tooth loss, it can hamper your normal life in many ways besides negatively impacting the alignment of your teeth over a period of time. A lost tooth can also make a big dent in your facial aesthetics, impacting your confidence. 

Moreover, a missing tooth can be detrimental to your speech, chewing abilities, and the integrity of your jawbone, causing the slow shifting of your teeth into some of the empty spaces. However, with modern dental advancements, there are several excellent options available that can help to replace your missing teeth or tooth.

What Are The Best Options To Replace Missing Teeth?  

Restorative and Cosmetic dentistry pertains to restoring teeth and improving their appearance.

There are many teeth-replacement options in restorative and cosmetic dentistry to make your teeth look and feel completely natural like they ideally should. Your dentist can help you find the best one suited for you.

Dental Implants 

A surgical procedure during which a replacement tooth root is put in and fused with the jawbone, dental implants are one of the most popular, common and reliable techniques of tooth replacement which makes teeth look and function like normal. 

Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several, or all missing teeth.

A permanent solution for those who wish to replace a single tooth, or multiple teeth, dental implants can last you a lifetime, if taken care of properly. 

The process of placing a dental implant can be a little longer because the implant takes time to fuse to the jawbone.

The tooth’s root is replaced with metal screws, used as an anchor for the false tooth or crown to be placed on top. The implants are allowed to heal for a few months, after being put in place to make sure that they securely fuse to your jawbone. 

After the implant has fully healed, a dental crown or an artificial tooth is placed on top and secured, giving you a comfortable, long-lasting, and natural smile. Moreover, you can speak, eat, and smile with confidence.

Also Read: Is it safe to Get Dental Implants if you are Pregnant?

Implant Supported Bridge 

An implant-supported bridge offers an ideal solution for replacing multiple missing teeth in a row for those who may find the process of replacing each tooth with a dental implant lengthy and unnecessary. 

The teeth at the two ends are secured in place with implants holding in place the teeth in the middle of the two ends without any screwing. The process may involve placing the implant, customizing the bridge, and placing the bridge in the location of the missing teeth, and thus takes time.

However, once in place a fixed dental bridge looks, feels,s and functions like natural teeth. 

Moreover, it does not need to be removed to be cleaned and is generally a much more economical option when compared to a dental tooth implant. However, it is imperative to mention here that Implant-supported bridges are not a permanent solution, and the bridges will need to be replaced eventually.

Tooth Supported Bridge 

In the tooth-supported bridge, the existing teeth are used to support the placement of a bridge, instead of placing two implants into your teeth. A crown is placed and fixed into place on the teeth next to the missing ones. The procedure takes a few visits to complete. It is a much less invasive method than a fixed bridge. Although less durable than implant-supported bridges, this can be a good option for missing front teeth, which typically don’t endure as much pressure. 

These types of bridges are also much less expensive and provide the same realistic look and feel as that of a dental implant. However, the adjoining teeth can get damaged over time in case of a poorly fitted bridge. Moreover, food particles can slide under the bridge making it harder to clean them, making one prone so if you aren’t careful with your cleaning, there is a greater risk of infection and bone loss. Our experts at Morgan Hill Dentistry can guide you about the viability of this option for you. 

Removable Partial Dentures 

A relatively simpler alternative for tooth restoration, Removable Partial Dentures are quite similar to dental implants. Removable partial dentures are recommended for people who have a few teeth missing and do not need a complete set of dentures to replace all their teeth.

Clasped into their correct place, they ensure that the false teeth are secured in the relevant spot and function as normal teeth.

These are known to be the most economical replacement option available normally and are easy to repair if there is any damage. Moreover, their application is quite simple and only needs the addition of metal clasps.

Though a great option for chewing and aesthetic appeal, these are not as durable and long-lasting as a tooth implant or bridge and can make one uncomfortable if worn for an extended amount of time. It is also mandatory that the dentures are removed and cleaned daily and removed while sleeping. Because of the metal clasps being visible, Partial dentures do not blend in or appear as natural as dental implants.

Removable Complete Denture 

Removable Complete dentures are an option for people with several missing teeth and are used to replace most, if not all, teeth.

Depending on the number of teeth one has, removable complete dentures can be quite an invasive procedure, requiring multiple trips to the dentist.

A removable complete denture looks and functions normally. However, they can be uncomfortable and are not meant to be worn for 24 hours a day.

A Word from Morgan Hill Dentistry 

Besides all the above methods of tooth replacement, there are a few more options available to replace missing teeth like flippers, bonding, porcelain veneers to replace teeth, etc.  

However, each option has its own advantages and disadvantages. 
Our expert dental professionals at Morgan Hill Dentistry, an emergency dental clinic can help you make the right decision based on your particular needs and budget. Our team of highly trained and dedicated professionals is committed to protecting your and your family’s dental health. If you have a single tooth or a number of teeth missing, you can consult us about your treatment options.

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