Best Option For Missing Teeth Replacement
More than half of adults in the U.S. are missing one or more of their permanent teeth. The likelihood of missing a tooth has a tendency to increase over time. For adults who are between 40 to 64 years old, nearly two thirds are missing one or more of their teeth. Close to 20% of adults older than 65 are missing all their natural teeth. Tooth decay is the most common reason adult patients experience tooth loss.
In addition to the embarrassment of missing teeth, it can also negatively impact a patient’s ability to perform routine tasks such as speaking and eating. There are fortunately numerous options available to aid patients in the replacement of missing teeth. The most common solutions for the replacement of missing teeth include dental implants, implant crown and bridges, and implant-supported dentures. Other solutions include partial and complete dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants work by fusing to the natural bone. For many patients, the stability and natural appearance of this solution makes it the most desirable option. The implant is surgically placed into the jawbone and replaces the natural tooth’s root. Implants have the ability to support a variety of tooth-replacement solutions including a dental bridge, crown, and denture.
In most cases, the implant is made from titanium. Titanium is a biocompatible material that is commonly used in prosthetics. After the implant is placed and has completely healed, a prosthetic tooth is then attached. Implants are incredibly secure, attractive, and function just like a natural tooth. For many patients and dentists, this is the best tooth-replacement solution.
Implant Crown and Bridges
Historically, removable dentures or a dental bridge was the only solution for patients who were missing one of their teeth located in the back of the mouth. Fortunately, there are not multiple options. Some of the common alternatives to these traditional solutions include an implant bridge, implant crown and implant-supported denture.
Implant crowns and implant bridges are both restorations which are supported by implants. The implant replaces the missing teeth. Implant crowns are an excellent option for the replacement of a single missing tooth and can be used for missing teeth in the front and back of the mouth.
When a patients is in need or replacing more than one tooth, an implant-supported bridge is an excellent solutions. Implant-supported bridges can be used for patients who are missing up to 12 teeth. The number of implants required and the size of the bridge will vary based on how many teeth are being replaced. A full mouth reconstruction can be used when patients are missing all of their teeth. The solution can use implant-supported dentures or dental implant bridges.
Implant-Supported Removable Denture
Implant-supported removable dentures are similar to traditional dentures in that they must be removed each night for cleaning. This solution, however, is more secure than traditional dentures as the denture is secured to implants. This makes the solution strong and secure. The two types of implant-supported removable dentures which are available include ball-retained and bar-retained are.
In some cases, the patient may decide not to do anything to replace their missing teeth. This is especially common when the missing teeth are not visible when the patient smiles or they are located in the back of the mouth. Other patients may decide against replacing their missing teeth due to the associated cost. When a patient chooses not to replace their missing teeth, it can cause serious dental issues in addition to complications with eating and speaking. Follow up with a dentist to discuss which options will work best to replace your missing teeth.