Best Option for Missing Teeth Replacement
More than half of all adults in the U.S. are missing one or more of their permanent teeth. The likelihood of losing a tooth becomes more common as a patient grows older. For patients between 40 and 64, nearly two thirds are missing one or more teeth. Close to 20% of all adults over the age of 65 are missing all of their natural teeth. Decay is the most common reason for an adult to lose their teeth.
Missing teeth can be embarrassing and impact the self-esteem of the patient. In addition, missing teeth can make it difficult for patients to complete daily tasks such as speaking and eating. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers multiple solutions for the replacement of missing teeth. Dental implants are the most popular treatment option. Other solutions include bridges, implant-supported dentures, partial dentures, and complete dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are arguably the best option available to replace missing teeth. The dental implant fuses to the natural bone during the healing process making the implant extremely strong and secure. Implants are stable and natural in their appearance, making them enticing to patients. They are surgically placed directly into the jawbone. The implant works by replacing the natural tooth’s root and stimulating the jawbone. Implants can also be used to support other treatments like dentures, bridges, and crowns.
In most cases, implants are created from titanium which is biocompatible and commonly used in prosthetic devices. Following the placement of implant and completion of the healing process, the prosthetic tooth is then attached. Because implants are incredibly secure, functional, and natural in their appearance, they are an exceptional option for the replacement of missing teeth.
Implant-Supported Removable Denture
Another solution for the replacement of missing teeth is an implant-supported removable denture. The removable denture is similar to traditional dentures in that nightly removal is required for cleaning. The dentures are secured to implants, however, making them quite secure. The two types of implant-supported removable dentures are bar-retained and ball-retained.
Implant Crown and Bridges
Historically, removable dentures or bridges were the only options for the replacement of missing teeth located in the back of their mouth. Because these teeth endure great forces from chewing, there are limitations on what can be used. Additional options which can now be used for missing teeth located in the back of the mouth include implant bridges, implant crowns, and implant-supported dentures.
Implant crowns and implant bridges use an implant as the foundation of the tooth restoration. Patients who are missing a single tooth find implant crowns to be an excellent solution. Implant crowns can also be used for missing teeth in the front of the patient’s mouth.
When a patient is missing multiple teeth, an implant-supported bridge is often used. This solution can be used to replace a maximum of 12 teeth. The size of the bridge and number of implants will depend on how many teeth are being replaced. Patients who are missing all of their teeth can undergo a full mouth reconstruction with implant-supported dentures or dental bridges.
In some cases, the patient decides against replacing their missing teeth altogether. This is most common if the missing teeth are located in the back of the mouth or are not visible when smiling. Patients may opt not to replace their missing teeth due to the high cost or time commitment associated with treatment. Neglecting to replace missing teeth can result in serious complications and long-term dental issues. Follow up with a dentist to determine which tooth-replacement solution is a good fit based on your needs.