What Long Term Options Are Available For Missing Teeth?
Are you seeking the best long term treatment to replace the missing teeth problem? Missing teeth can be very uncomfortable and cause people to hide their smiles. Missing teeth lead to a loss of self-esteem. When not treated on time, missing teeth can become infected with bacteria and making it hard for people to speak or eat correctly.
Many people lose their teeth through cavities, injury, or periodontal disease. Luckily today there are several tooth replacement options available, including dental implants, partial dentures, crowns, etc. However, among all dental implants will be a treatment that usually results in a longer lifespan.
In this article, we’ll discuss types of tooth replacement options and understand its pros and cons that can help you in long run.
Best permanent tooth Replacement Options
1. Dental Implants
Dental implants are an artificial alternative for replacing the roots of missing natural teeth and giving the final repair of a natural tooth. They can be placed in the jawbone to support a single crown, a bridge, or a complete denture. It is one of the best solutions for replacing missing teeth.
The Process
A treatment is performed by the surgeon. This has a review of your medical history, x-rays, and models of your teeth along with a clinical examination.
Surgery: This is performed in several stages. First, the damaged tooth and its leftovers are removed. If there is inadequate bone to secure the implant, bone grafting may be required. After the grafted site is healed, the implant is placed into the jawbone. The abutment allows the final crown or other restoration to be assured by the implant. That way, the implant functions as your natural tooth. The entire process can take 8 to 12 months, relying on your healing rate and the complexity of treatment.
Pros
Dental implants are long-lasting and feel and function like natural teeth. Other than good oral hygiene, dental implants require minimal care.
Cons
It is a surgical treatment. It is more costly than other tooth-replacement alternatives. The complete treatment needs multiple dental visits, so be ready.
2. All-on-four Implant-Supported Dentures
The All-on-4 implant-supported dentures are a tooth replacement option. It permits a complete denture to be secured by four dental implants. It’s most useful for patients whose tooth loss prevents them from getting multiple dental implants.
The Process
Two implants are fixed near the front portion of the arch and other implant is placed further back on each side and these implants often take advantage of maximum bone support. The procedure allows a complete arch of 12 to 14 teeth to be secured by four dental implants. However, a temporary denture is created before the implant surgery. Six to eight months later, the dentist begins the process of manufacturing your final restoration which may be a complete denture. A screw-retained denture it is.
Pros
Implant restorations are more durable, powerful, and comfortable than wearing traditional complete dentures.
Cons
The restorations involve removable dentures, which might be unpleasant to some patients. There are limitations to this procedure. Not appropriate for all candidates. It depends on health concerns or lack of sufficient bone density.
3. Tooth-Supported Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge is a tooth replacement choice. Abutment teeth on per side of the missing tooth are crowned and are joined by a false tooth that serves the space.
The Process
First, the dentist will schedule your abutment teeth by grinding down and reshaping them. Impressions are taken to design and custom fabricates the bridge and then the bridge is manufactured. The dentist will use a temporary bridge to cover your abutment teeth and make it easier for you to chew. When you’re permanent bridge is ready, your dentist will pull the temporary bridge.
Pros
Bridges allow you to nibble and also everyday care for a bridge is needed.
Cons
A bridge is a more costly option. The ground down abutment teeth is more sensitive to future tooth erosion. Regular dental check-ups and ideal hygiene are required to safeguard your investment.
4. Removable Complete Dentures
Removable complete dentures are created to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. They are a thrifty and non-invasive method of tooth replacement. Dentures consist of faulty teeth connected to an acrylic base that rests upon your gums and jawbone.
The Process
First, impressions of your gums are taken. A preliminary bite record is also captured to show the space between the upper and lower teeth. Mounted anatomic models are created. This try-in provides the dentist the chance for refinements and allows the patient to see the final denture. Tooth color, tooth shape, and fit may be modified to achieve the expected look. Once approved by the patient, the final denture is manufactured and finished for delivery. Later the dentist will make any required final adjustments to improve the fit and comfort.
Pros
Denture teeth has different shapes, sizes, and colors and can be adjusted or relined to compensate for minor changes in the shape of the gum.
Cons
Complete dentures can cause uncomfortable sore spots.
Conclusion:
A healthy set of teeth is the greatest essential to having a fantastic smile. It also helps to keep good overall health. If you are facing the problem of missing teeth, there are several dental implants known on the market. Just choose the best suitable option after consulting your problem with your dentist. The best option suggested by your dentist for replacing missing teeth can help in restoring your smile again. Do contact us for all kinds of dental problems. We will be pleased in helping our neighbors.