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What options do I have for missing teeth?

Missing teeth can create a lot of stress but fortunately, there are several options to restore both function and aesthetics. Here’s an overview of the most common solutions:

1. Dental Implants

What It Is: A titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone that acts as a root for an artificial tooth (crown). Dental implants are the closest replacement to natural teeth.

Best For: Single or multiple missing teeth, providing a long-term and natural-looking solution.

• Pros:
  • Durable and permanent.
  • Looks and feels like natural teeth.
  • Preserves jawbone health by preventing bone loss.
• Cons:
  • Higher upfront cost but similar cost over the long run.
  • Requires sufficient bone density.
  • Surgical procedure with a healing period.

2. Fixed Dental Bridge

What It Is: A prosthetic tooth (or teeth) anchored by crowns placed on adjacent teeth.

Best For: Replacing one or a few adjacent missing teeth.

• Pros:
  • Stable and fixed in place.
  • Less invasive than implants.
  • A quicker solution compared to implants.
• Cons:
  • Adjacent healthy teeth need to be shaved down for crowns.
  • Adjacent healthy teeth often require further treatment.
  • Will not prevent bone loss in the missing tooth area.

3. Removable Partial Denture

What It Is: A custom-made appliance with prosthetic teeth attached to a plastic or metal framework, designed to replace a few missing teeth.

Best For: Multiple missing teeth in different areas of the mouth.

• Pros:
  • Affordable.
  • Non-invasive and easy to adjust or replace.
  • Can be removed for cleaning.
• Cons:
  • Less stable than fixed options.
  • Can feel bulky or uncomfortable at first.
  • May require frequent adjustments.

4. Full Dentures

What It Is: A complete set of artificial teeth fitted to replace all upper or lower teeth.

Best For: People missing all teeth in an arch.

• Pros:
  • Affordable compared to implants.
  • Non-invasive and removable.
  • Modern designs can look natural.
• Cons:
  • May slip or feel unstable without adhesive.
  • Can take time to adapt to.
  • Does not prevent bone loss.

5. Implant-Supported Dentures

What It Is: Dentures secured to dental implants for added stability.

Best For: People missing all teeth who want more stability than traditional dentures provide.

• Pros:
  • More stable than traditional dentures.
  • Prevents significant bone loss.
  • Long-lasting.
• Cons:
  • More expensive than traditional dentures.
  • Requires surgery and healing time.

6. Resin-Bonded Bridge (Maryland Bridge)

What It Is: A false tooth bonded to adjacent teeth using a metal or ceramic framework.

Best For: Front teeth where less chewing force is applied.

• Pros:
  • Minimally invasive.
  • Preserves adjacent teeth.
• Cons:
  • Less durable and may detach with heavy chewing.
  • Not suitable for back teeth.

Factors to Consider:

• Budget: Implants are costlier than bridges or dentures in the short term, but they last longer if well looked after.
• Oral Health: Some options require a healthy jawbone and gums.
• Lifestyle: Fixed options (implants or bridges) offer convenience and better patient adaptation, while removable options require more maintenance.
• Aesthetics: Implants and modern bridges often provide the most natural appearance.

It’s best to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable option based on your specific needs, oral health, and goals.