Having a missing tooth might seem like the end of the world, but it’s far more common than you’d think in the United States of America. Up to 69 percent of adults between 35 and 44 in the US are missing at least one tooth, but you’ll find several viable solutions if you’re included in that number.
Knowing your oral health options is essential to find a solution for lost or missing teeth without breaking your savings account. Options like dentures are an everyday staple for those with missing teeth, but other options provide a permanent and stunning solution.
The good news is that you’ve found the perfect guide to learning more about your tooth care options after you lose a permanent tooth. Keep reading to learn about four ways to replace a missing tooth today!
1. Dental Implants
Dental implants sound intimidating, but they’re one of the most effective options for oral health if you’re missing teeth. Your dental implants will look and feel like natural teeth, making them a perfect replacement if a permanent tooth goes missing. You can use dental implants to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth in your mouth.
Proper maintenance steps are essential, but you can make dental implants last the rest of your life with appropriate care. Getting a dental implant is time-consuming, but it’s worth it if you want a seamless replacement.
The root of the tooth gets replaced with a metal screw. This screw is the dental implant’s anchor to keep it in place when chewing food. The screw needs a few months to heal before you can install the fake tooth on top of it.
This time also allows the screw to fuse to your jawbone for added security. The dentist will avoid putting the false tooth on the screw until the healing process concludes. Take your time to find solutions for dental implants.
Pros and Cons of Dental Implants
The biggest pro of getting dental implants is that they’re the most effective and permanent way to replace a missing tooth. Your dental implant will look the same as any other tooth in your mouth. You also won’t impact any neighboring teeth with your new implant, making it perfect for oral health.
The process is time-consuming, which is a drawback. Dental implants are expensive, with your bills soaring above $5,000 for this missing tooth replacement.
2. Implant-Supported Bridge
Implant-supported bridges are an excellent method to turn to if you’re missing multiple teeth in a particular area of your mouth. The process uses two dental implants with missing teeth at either end of the section. These implants act as anchors to keep the replacement teeth in between the implants in place.
It combines the process of getting a bridge with getting implants, and it eliminates the need for other implants. The anchors fused to your jaw hold the area between the two implants.
Pros and Cons of Implant-Supported Bridges
Implant-supported bridges are one of the most affordable options if you have several missing teeth in a line. The implants allow the bridge the support it needs to stay in place when going about life. You’ll save money when replacing your missing teeth and enjoy a natural look and feel with your replacement teeth.
The drawback with this method for replacing missing teeth is that they’re only suitable in the right circumstances. You must miss multiple teeth in a row for this solution to make sense for your oral health. They’re also temporary solutions since your bridge must be replaced consistently.
3. Tooth-Supported Bridge
You can also use a tooth-supported bridge to replace any missing teeth in your mouth. Your existing teeth act as the anchor for your bridge, and the dentist will place crowns on the surrounding teeth to add extra support for the bridge. The crowns and bridge are cemented into place to keep them from moving around when you chew your food.
Pros and Cons of Tooth-Supported Bridges
A significant reason to choose a tooth-supported bridge for your oral health is the fact that this method doesn’t require surgery. You’ll enjoy the same realistic feeling and appearance with your teeth without the need for a lengthy implant process. It’s also much more affordable than paying for dental implants.
One drawback to consider is the need to file the teeth next to the bridge to fit them for a crown. You’ll face increased odds of infection in the future as a result of your crowns. The adjacent teeth also risk future damage if the bridge doesn’t fit well.
4. Removable Dentures
Dentures are an old-school solution to missing teeth, and they’re effective though somewhat inconvenient compared to the other tooth care solutions in this article. You can use partial dentures to replace an area in your mouth where you’re missing multiple teeth.
They’re a viable option for individuals missing multiple teeth without the need for a full set of removable dentures. They’re clasped into place to ensure that they don’t fall out as you go about your day.Â
Pros and Cons of Removable Dentures
Removable dentures offer significant flexibility for your oral health. You can add more dentures if you lose more teeth in the future, and it’s the most affordable method to replace missing teeth. These denture options are also inexpensive and simple to replace or repair if they get damaged.
The downside to partial dentures is the comfort level you’ll experience. They’re the least comfortable option on this list, making them the last resort if you’re ready to replace missing teeth.
Start Replacing Your Missing Teeth Today
You don’t have to hide your smile anymore if you have missing teeth, as there are several excellent solutions for your oral health to replace those teeth. Dental implants are the most effective option if you want to replace your teeth with a natural-looking option that is built to last. Removable partial dentures are the best option if you’re working with a limited budget but need a solution for lost teeth.
Are you ready to get your radiant smile back? Check out the rest of our blog articles for more useful lifestyle and health content today!
