Your Tooth Replacement Options
A tooth replacement procedure is necessary when someone has lost their natural teeth. Teeth play an important role in maintaining good health and oral functions like chewing and speaking, so tooth loss can be quite devastating. Fortunately, there are many tooth replacement options available today to replace missing teeth.
Tooth replacement options
Options available for those who have missing teeth include the following.
Dental implant
Dental implant restoration involves replacing the root of the missing tooth with a metal implant that fuses with the jawbone. It is an excellent solution that provides the feel, function and appearance of the natural teeth. It works effectively for a single tooth and is highly durable and can last several years before needing to be replaced. Dental implants are more invasive than other options and usually cost more. Also, not everyone is eligible for the procedure.
Fixed bridge
A fixed bridge closes the gap left by one or more missing teeth. The process of placing the bridge usually requires multiple appointments with the dentist, since customizing and placing the bridge to fit perfectly in the mouth requires time. The bridge consists of dental prosthetics supported by either the nearby healthy tooth or dental implants.
After placing the bridge, it will function and look like natural teeth. Usually, fixed bridges do not need to be removed for cleaning and are usually considered cost-effective alternatives to dental implants.
Resin-retained bridge
A resin-retained bridge is usually the less invasive alternative to fixed bridges. A fixed bridge is preferred for teeth that are used for chewing such as the molars, while a resin-retained bridge can be practical for missing front teeth, which generally do not experience the same level of pressure.
A resin-retained bridge is fixed to the teeth on either side. Although they are less durable than fixed bridges, they are usually less expensive.
Removable partial denture
A removable partial denture is used when one or multiple teeth are missing. This tooth replacement has a small section of false teeth that are customized to look and function naturally. Although the removable partial denture is good for dental functions, it is not as durable as dental bridges or implants and may get uncomfortable if worn for long periods. However, it is generally the least expensive option available, and repair is easy in case of damage.
Removable complete denture
Unlike a removable partial denture that only replaces a section of lost teeth, full dentures are usually used when most or all of the teeth are lost. The process requires multiple appointments, and the result is a functional dental restoration that rests on the gums for support. Dentures are meant to be taken out at night before sleeping.
Visit the dentist
If you have lost one or more teeth and are searching for effective options to restore your smile, you should consult the general dentist before making a decision. The dentist will present you with the most suitable tooth replacement option.
Request an appointment here: https://www.buhite.com or call Buhite & Buhite DDS at (585) 310-4078 for an appointment in our Rochester office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Tooth Replacement in Rochester, NY.
Related Posts
A root canal removes the interior living tissues of a tooth in order to combat infection or address damage. While it is not a dentist’s first choice, it can be necessary when no other options will save the tooth. If you are scheduled for a root canal, you may have heard that this procedure causes…
Your teeth are one of the first things that people notice about you, and if you are not confident about your smile, a dental veneer might be on your mind as a possible solution. It is one way to change how a tooth looks, but there are many other options. So, why opt for veneers…
Regardless of why you are missing teeth, dental implants can be an effective solution. Comprising a post, abutment and crown, implants are natural-looking and help preserve your mouth’s functions. If you take care of these artificial teeth, they should serve your needs for years to come.Unlike other tooth-replacement solutions such as dentures, the patient cannot…
A wisdom tooth extraction is a popular procedure that most people are familiar with. However, as with most popular knowledge, not everything people believe is true, and that includes beliefs about removing wisdom teeth. Debunking these myths is important as they could be prohibiting individuals from getting the procedure that is necessary to maintain good…