3 Tooth Replacement Options To Restore Your Healthy Smile

BY Dr. McDowell  |  October 23rd, 2019
Dr. McDowell
Dr. McDowell has always been focused on using the latest technology to improve the patient experience. From radiation-free imaging to laser dentistry, he has always been ahead of the curve and is dedicated to improving the practice of dentistry one ..

Did you know your teeth are a necessity for your overall health? They are what allow you to chew and consume your food. They help you form words when you speak. And if you’re missing one or several teeth, it can make these tasks much more difficult. 

Luckily there are tooth replacement options for people who have missing teeth and need replacements.

dentist talking with patient about tooth replacement options

What Causes Missing Teeth?

People lose teeth for a variety of reasons. Two of the most popular reasons for this are because of gum disease and tooth decay. Gum disease develops when there is an excessive amount of plaque buildup in the gum line causing swelling in the gum tissue. 

Tooth decay is caused by particles from food being left on the teeth which encourage bacteria to create acid and damage the enamel of the teeth leaving you with cavities

Athletes are also at a higher risk of tooth loss, especially in sports where many of the participants don’t wear mouthguards. 

If you do happen to lose a tooth, do not panic. There are options for you and Wayzata Dental can help make that smile full again.

So with that, here are three tooth replacement options to restore your healthy smile.

Top 3 Tooth Replacement Options

Option 1: Fixed Bridge

digital image of dental bridge; tooth replacement options

To make it simple, a fixed bridge is a device that connects your prosthetic tooth to the existing teeth in your mouth. 

There are three different types to choose from – Traditional, Cantilever, and Maryland. 

The process of implementing a fixed bridge will usually take several visits to the dentist. At the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the teeth for the bridge to be inserted and may place temporary crowns in the cases of traditional and cantilever bridges. The actual bridge is put in place at a later visit.  

Once the dental bridge is put into place, it will look, function, and feel like your natural teeth. It does not require removal for cleaning and will typically be much more cost-friendly than a dental tooth implant.

Option 2:  Dental Implant

woman with red hair looking at tooth replacement options

A dental implant is a titanium fixture that is fused into the jawbone through a surgical procedure. Since the implants are inserted into the jawbone, they are sturdy and have good support. This prevents them from shifting or slipping out of place while you are doing daily activities such as eating or speaking. 

Since no other teeth need to be adjusted to hold the tooth replacement in place, only people with healthy gums and secure jawbones are candidates for this procedure. 

Dental implants have the same look, feel, and sturdiness as your natural teeth. They have the durability to last for years and even decades without having to be repaired and replaced. 

It is important to note, however, that dental implants require surgery and are more costly than bridges and dentures, so they are not always right for everyone. 

Option 3: Partial Denture

dentist going over tooth replacement options like dentures

If you are looking for a removable tooth replacement option, partial dentures are the choice for you. 

Partial dentures are fake teeth with a gum-colored base attached to a metal frame. The frame fits into your mouth as a retainer would so it is not as bothersome. There are some times when crowns are placed next to the natural teeth in order to provide anchors for the dentures. 

The feel a denture will have is going to be different than your natural teeth. You are also most likely going to have to make a few adjustments with eating and speaking with them. As you get older and your mouth changes, you will eventually need to have them remade so they can fit and function as they should. 

Partial dentures are also not going to be as durable as tooth implants or bridges and can be uncomfortable when worn for a long period of time. 

However, getting a set of partial dentures is the least expensive option available and easy to repair if something does happen to them. 

Schedule An Appointment With Wayzata Dental Today!

Hopefully, this article gives you a better idea of tooth replacement options and puts you at ease. 

There are several options out there, it’s all about finding the right one for you. For more information, schedule an appointment with us today!

Dr. McDowell
Dr. McDowell has always been focused on using the latest technology to improve the patient experience. From radiation-free imaging to laser dentistry, he has always been ahead of the curve and is dedicated to improving the practice of dentistry one ..