3 Tooth Replacement Options
One, two, three, or an entire row of missing teeth can impact a person’s oral, systemic, and mental health. The desire to replace missing teeth is understandable. Truthfully, tooth replacement may be your best chance at achieving optimal oral health. Dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants are three options for patients who suffer from tooth loss.
While bridges and dentures are well-known restorative options, dental implants are newer, and many people don’t know much about them. Implants are small, titanium rods that are placed in the jawbone and hold another restoration in place. When you meet with Dr. Nathaniel Podilsky in Edmonton, AB, he will recommend the most appropriate option for your smile.
1. Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are often recommended to patients with up to three missing teeth in a row. The bridge consists of two dental crowns on either side of the pontics (or false teeth) in the middle. The crowns attach to the patient’s healthy, natural teeth on either side of the gap, and the pontics fill in the gap.
Patients often choose dental bridges because they are affordable, natural-looking, and long-lasting when taken care of properly. However, the dental crowns may damage the patient’s healthy teeth, resulting in the need for more dental work in the future.
2. Dentures
Dentures are an affordable way to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Made of acrylic, porcelain, or a combination, dentures are crafted specifically for each patient, so they look and feel as realistic as possible. Unlike dental bridges and implants, traditional dentures are removable and can be taken out of the mouth at any time to be cleaned or allow the gums to rest.
Though dentures are affordable, they often need to be relined or replaced. Many denture patients also complain about the dentures moving and slipping around throughout the day. Because of this, you may want to consider a fixed option like a bridge or dental implants.
3. Dental Implants
Dental implants are unique for several reasons. For starters, implants are the only restorative option that replace the tooth root, not just the crown. This benefits the patient by supporting their jawbone and facial structures which helps minimize the risk of further tooth loss.
Secondly, implants support crowns, bridges, and dentures. Therefore, they can be used to replace one, several, or an entire arch of teeth.
All-in-all, dental implants are expected to last 40 years or more, fully restore function, and improve and protect your oral health. For these reasons, Dr. Podilsky recommends dental implants for patients with missing teeth who are suitable candidates for the procedure.
Am I a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Candidacy requirements for dental implants include:
- Adequate jawbone density
- If not, you are healthy enough to undergo bone grafting
- No tooth decay or gum disease
- Good overall health
We can perform or coordinate all related procedures so our patients can reap the invaluable benefits of implants. Schedule an initial consultation at our Edmonton to learn whether you qualify.
Schedule an Appointment
Waiting to replace your missing teeth could result in more tooth loss, shifting teeth, gum disease, lowered self-esteem, and an array of other health conditions. Dr. Podilsky would love to sit down and discuss your tooth replacement options with you before these issues develop. Call our Edmonton office today at (780) 428-6846 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
