There are multiple options for patients who want to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a popular choice because of their benefits; however, some patients may prefer another option.
There are several tooth replacement options available to most patients.
Implant surgery involves placing titanium posts in the jaw of the patient to replace missing teeth roots. Once the jawbone has bonded to the implant, a dentist can attach crowns to replace the missing teeth.
Dental bridges are one or more artificial teeth that are held in place by crowns on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. Bridges are cemented to the crowns to keep them in place.
Removable dentures are artificial teeth attached to a plastic base that is shaded to match the patient's gums. Dentures are held in place with adhesive.
Similar to traditional dentures in other respects, implant-supported models are held in place by implants instead of adhesives.
Each of the tooth replacement options has benefits and drawbacks.
Implants look and function similarly to natural teeth. Implants are durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss. Implants do not require the adjacent teeth to be altered. Implants allow patients to brush and floss normally.
Patients who do not have sufficient jawbone mass or who have health conditions that may interfere with healing, such as diabetes or heart disease, may not be able to have the procedure. Additionally, the procedure may take many months to complete because of the healing time required for the jawbone to bond to the implants.
Fixed bridges replicate the appearance and function of natural teeth. They usually cost less than dental implants. Fixed bridges do not need to be removed to be cleaned.
Bridges are not as durable as implants and may wear out or break. Bridges require the adjacent teeth to be reduced so that crowns can be placed. Bridges do not replace missing tooth roots and do not prevent bone loss from occurring.
Dentures are usually less expensive than implants or bridges. Dentures are a less invasive treatment than bridges or implants.
Dentures may slide around in the mouth making chewing and speaking difficult. Some foods are difficult to eat with dentures. Dentures require the use of messy adhesives and must be removed for cleaning. Dentures do not replace missing tooth roots, which can lead to bone loss.
Implant-supported dentures do not move around like removable dentures. They are easy to clean. The implants stimulate the jawbone, which helps prevent bone loss.
Implant-supported dentures cost more than traditional dentures. Not all patients can have dental implants.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in East Point, GA
Dental implants may be an option for you if you are healthy enough to have the procedure and have sufficient jawbone to anchor the implants. However, other options may better fit your budget, dental needs, health, and preferences.
Request an appointment or call J.D. Murray DDS & Associates at 404-410-2526 for an appointment in our East Point office.
If you have one or more missing teeth or dentures that move around on you, you might want to consider dental implants. Essentially, implants are man-made devices that act as anchors for various forms of artificial teeth. They can be a great way to restore both your smile and your confidence. Here are some important…
Dental implants are a way to replace a missing tooth in a way that looks and feels close to natural. Dental implant surgery is a multistep process, and it is important to know what to expect before you get started. You should speak with your dentist about whether implants are a good fit for you.…
Many patients who have missing teeth consider dental implants as an option to restore the look and function of their smile. When deciding whether to have the procedure, it is important to learn as much as possible about the treatment.There are a variety of things patients should know about dental implants when considering the procedure.Dental…
If you are looking for a tooth replacement method, you may want to consider a partial denture for one missing tooth. Although it may be tempting not to replace a tooth, especially if the gap is in the back and is hard to see, there are various consequences of not doing so. Although there are…
For patients who want to replace a damaged or lost tooth without undergoing invasive dental work, a partial denture for one missing tooth can be an excellent alternative. This dental appliance helps restore the look and function of the natural tooth and is completely removable for cleaning and maintenance. In fact, it is important to…