Tooth loss can happen to anyone. Our East London dental practice can help get your smile back.
Missing teeth can be a source of frustration and embarrassment, but with the right tooth replacement options, you can restore the health, strength and confidence of your smile. From dental implants to bridges to dentures, there are many ways to replace missing teeth. Each one offers its own benefits and limitations, so it’s important to take the time to properly research each option before making a decision.
Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your individual needs and budget, so make sure you consult with a qualified dentist before committing to any treatment.
Keep reading to learn more about each option so you can make an informed decision.
Dental implants to replace a missing tooth
A dental implant is one of the most popular options for a single-tooth replacement, or even if you need a few that you need fitting because they look and feel just like your natural teeth. Dental implants are essentially titanium posts that are surgically inserted into your jawbone as a permanent option for tooth loss.
Once the implants have fused with your jawbone, artificial teeth are then attached to the implants.
The advantage of dental implants:
- They are permanent, which means you don’t have to worry about them slipping or falling out.
- You can eat your favourite foods
- Next best thing to healthy, natural teeth
- Protect other teeth and bone, preventing bone loss
- Speakeasy
The Disadvantages of dental implants:
- Surgery is required
- Can be expensive
- Although dental implants are permanent, the restorations that you attach to them may need replacing.
Dental bridges to replace missing teeth
Another popular option for tooth replacement and to fill gaps is dental bridges. Dental bridges consist of artificial teeth that are securely attached to existing teeth that fill the place of a missing tooth or teeth.
The advantage of dental bridges:
- Less expensive than dental implants
- Doesn’t require surgery
- Improve chewing and speech
- They can be both fixed or removable
- Helps to maintain your face’s natural shape
The advantage of dental bridges:
- It may require alteration to your surrounding natural teeth supporting the bridges
- Doesn’t address bone loss
Could dentures be the answer to missing teeth?
Dentures are the most common type of tooth replacement and have been used for centuries. Dentures are removable artificial teeth that fit snugly over your gums. Whether you are missing a single tooth or looking for a solution for multiple missing teeth, this could be a great option for you as they are natural-looking, leading people to think they’re your real teeth.
The advantage of dentures:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Doesn’t require surgery
- Designed to feel comfortable
- Removable partial dentures are also available
The disadvantages of dentures:
- Must be removed and thoroughly cleaned regularly
- Can sometimes slip
- Partial dentures can weaken the adjacent natural teeth that provide support for the dentures.
- If not removed and cleaned correctly, they can collect bacteria and cause oral health problems such as gum disease.
Conclusion
No matter what option you choose, it’s important to consult with a dentist to ensure that you’re getting the right dental treatment plan for healthy teeth. With so many treatment options available, there’s sure to be a dental plan that fits both your needs and your budget.
Don’t let missing teeth hold you back any longer. Whether you’re looking to start up a new business or go out and meet new people, we want to help you get your confidence back—if you’re missing one or more teeth, give us a call today and book an appointment at our East London dental practice. Let us help you find the best solution for you.
