Has tooth loss got you feeling down? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Studies show that 69% of adults ages 35 to 44 have already lost at least one permanent tooth, and by age 74, 26% of Americans have lost all of their teeth. While tooth loss is certainly something to be concerned about, the good news is that there are plenty of options for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. So, without further ado, here are five tooth replacement options to consider.
Endosteal Dental Implants
Endosteal dental implants are the most popular type of implant, accounting for about 90% of all procedures. This involves surgically placing a metal screw into the jawbone below the gum line. Once the implant has healed and fused with the bone (a process that can take up to four months), a custom-made replacement tooth is then attached to the metal post.
Tooth-Supported Bridges
A tooth-supported bridge is typically used to replace one or more missing teeth in a row. The bridge consists of one or more false teeth that are anchored in place by two crowns, one on each end. The crowns are placed over the natural teeth next to the gap left by the missing tooth (or teeth) and are used to hold the pontic in place.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture is used to replace one or more missing teeth when there are still some natural teeth remaining. A dentist who specializes in tooth replacement, such as Signature Dental, attaches the partial denture to your natural teeth and fills in the gaps left by the missing teeth. Partial dentures can be removable or fixed, depending on your needs and preference.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth—either the top arch, bottom arch, or both. Full dentures consist of artificial replacement teeth set in a pink base that matches the color of your gums. The base is held in place by suction or a slight adhesive bond and covers your gums where your natural teeth once were.
Resin-Bonded Bridges
Resin-bonded bridges are another option for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row. This type of bridge consists of one or more false teeth that are attached to your natural teeth on either side of the gap left by the missing tooth or teeth. Unlike traditional bridges, resin-bonded bridges do not require crowned abutment (anchoring) teeth for support; instead, they use special dental adhesives to attach wings made of metal or porcelain onto your existing adjacent teeth for support.
Dental implants offer several benefits over other types of tooth replacements, such as Bridges and dentures, including improved aesthetics, increased durability, and greater comfort levels. However, they also tend to be more expensive than other options and require surgical placement; consequently, they may not be suitable for everyone. Be sure to discuss all your options with your dentist before deciding which type of tooth replacement is right for you.
There’s no need to fret if you’re dealing with tooth loss. Thanks to modern technology, there are now plenty of options for replacing missing teeth and restoring your smile. Whether you’re looking for something permanent or just want a temporary fix, there’s sure to be an option that’s perfect for you. Be sure to consult with your dentist before making any decisions about which route you want to go so that you can make an informed choice about which type of replacement will best suit your needs—and budget!
Written by: Rachelle Wilber
About author: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/people/Rachelle-Wilber/100009221637700/