Do you have missing teeth that you’re worried will affect your smile or speech? Are you trying to find ways to replace them with something that looks natural?
Then you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’re going to go over everything you need to know about the different options to replace missing teeth. Find out what the different options are that exist to replace missing teeth.
Read on!
1. Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a safe, reliable treatment option. The implant itself is a small metal post that acts as a tooth root replacement. This is embedded into the jaw bone.
Once the implant is firmly secured, a crown or bridge is placed on top. There are many benefits of dental implants and one is the obvious – to replace a missing tooth to improve your mouth’s health.
The process is straightforward, with a dentist preparing and placing the implant. Implants are also the most aesthetically pleasing and natural looking. They are also durable and can last a lifetime with the right aftercare.
2. Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a common solution for missing teeth and are a permanent replacement. They are composed of two crowns on either side of the missing tooth. These act as an anchor for the pontic, or false tooth, to be attached to.
Bridges are cemented into place and can only be removed by a dentist. They also help to restore the patient’s bite. This enables them to consume food easier and more comfortably.
The pontic is made from either porcelain or gold. The two anchoring crowns can be porcelain fused to metal, all-porcelain, or all-metal. Dental bridges are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide a more natural-looking smile for the patient.
3. Dentures
Dentures are inexpensive, safe, and popular solutions for missing teeth. Dentures look, feel and function just like natural teeth. Newer technologies like digital scanning and 3D printing offer the ability to create extremely lifelike dentures.
They have higher levels of durability and comfort than ever before. Dentures can also help to enhance facial contours, improve speech, and restore proper chewing and digestion. Maintenance can be done easily by daily cleaning with a brush and soaking in a special solution.
4. Bonding or Veneers
Bonding and veneers are two solutions for missing teeth that can provide significantly improved aesthetic appearance and even oral function. Bonding can be performed in one visit and lasts around 4-7 years. It is most commonly used to repair decayed, fractured, and discolored teeth, or to close gaps between teeth.
Veneers are also great options to improve a patient’s smile, they require two appointments and will last between 10-15 years when taking proper care of them. They are ultra-thin and semi-translucent and require little to no preparation of the tooth (unlike crowns). Bonding and veneers are both solutions that are relatively affordable and often covered by insurance, making them a great option for those suffering from missing teeth.
Explore Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
The solution to missing teeth is not just one option. Dentists have a variety of treatments available such as implants, bridges, dentures, and more.
Each one has advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to talk to your dentist and discuss what your individual needs are. The important thing is to take action to restore your oral health and confidence.
Contact your local dentist today to see what solution is best for you.
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