You have plenty of options if you need to get a tooth replacement. Depending on how you want to replace your missing tooth, you can go with dental bridges, implants, or partial dentures. No matter which option you choose, these can be great solutions for missing teeth and help complete your smile and sustain your chewing surface. Let’s look at some options for tooth replacement and what to expect when replacing a tooth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a great option for tooth replacement, as they anchor into your jawbone and function like natural teeth. One of the downsides of dentures is that they can move around in your mouth and may contribute to your jawline receding. Dental implants, however, help maintain your jawline and are permanent parts of your mouth once fully healed.
It is worth noting that dental implants do require surgery to install the anchor portion of the implant. However, once the implant is installed, your dentist can attach a crown that looks and feels like your natural tooth. Dental implants can also be paired with dental bridges to replace several missing teeth in a row, as the implants can act as anchors for the dental bridges.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can replace a single tooth or a string of teeth in a row. These partial dentures attach directly to your remaining teeth or dental implants, providing a secure, reliable chewing surface that doesn’t shift around or move. While dental bridges do not help retain your jawline, they are a reasonable tooth replacement, allowing you to regain your chewing surface. Dental bridges work best in cases where someone has lost several teeth in a row, although you can get a dental bridge for a single tooth between two healthy teeth. Be sure to talk to your dentist to determine if dental bridges are the right tooth replacement option.
Partial Dentures
You can get partial dentures if you’ve lost several teeth in an area. These sit on top of your gumline and act like replacement teeth. Regarding tooth replacements, partial dentures are the least secure of the replacement options, as they are made to be removed at night. While they can act as a decent replacement for your natural teeth, remember they may not feel as natural as an implant or dental bridge and may take some adjustment. However, partial dentures can be a good option if you’re looking to replace several missing teeth in a row. If you have very few teeth remaining on one portion of your jaw, you may also be a good fit for a full set of dentures. Talk to your dentist to determine what will work best for you and your dental needs.
If you’re interested in tooth replacement options or want to schedule an appointment, contact Coolbreeze Dentistry at (972) 432-8811. Our team of dental professionals would be happy to discuss your dental replacement options with you and help you come up with a treatment plan that works for you. We look forward to hearing from you.