Having strong and healthy teeth is crucial to overall health and happiness. Although a dentist’s preference is always to preserve the patient’s natural teeth, there are times when a replacement is the necessary step.
The right tooth replacement option depends on the budget, particular situation, and overall dental health. In typical cases, you may consult with multiple specialists, such as a periodontist, prosthodontist, and of course, your traditional dentist. Regardless, there are five popular options for tooth replacement, and they include the following:
Dental Implants
Dental implants may be used to replace a single tooth, a few teeth, or even the full set. They create foundations for fixed or removable teeth and are customized to match natural teeth. They feel and look like the original set and are durable. They also feel strong and preserve the underlying bone tissue. Patients can brush or floss regularly with these implants.
Full Arch Dental Implants (Implant Bridge)
Implant bridges are more stable and do not feel as bulky as dentures. They are also permanent and deliver the look and feel of natural teeth. They also preserve the bone and muscle tones, which means you can clean and eat with them with no worries. Full arch dental implants are one of the closest tooth replacement options to natural teeth.
Fixed Bridges
These tooth replacements are used to fill gaps in your smile by creating a dental bridge suspended by abutment teeth on either side of the gap. These bridges are usually made of porcelain or metal and differ from traditional bridges.. They are less expensive than dental implants and look and feel like natural teeth. You can also clean and eat with them with ease. However, dentists recommend them only when there is a natural tooth on either side of the gap in your smile.
Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are affordable when compared to implants or fixed bridges. They are also noninvasive, swift replacement options. However, they tend to be bulkier and may cause bone shrinkage or deterioration of muscle tissue over time.
As they become looser, it becomes difficult to eat or talk. Nevertheless, these dentures are more comfortable to clean, as they are removable.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures are sturdier than removable partial dentures. They are also affordable and can provide support because they use implants that can stay in place better than adhesives.
With the implant, the dental fixture is less bulky, and this creates more space for the tongue. These dentures are easier to clean and maintain. They also preserve bone, muscle, and tissue tone and provide better chewing and smiling support.
For a more thorough understanding of your tooth replacement options, consult with your local dentist. Atlantis Dental Roundhouse can provide professional recommendations for your particular situation and help find the right fit for your smile.