The consequences of missing teeth are serious and, despite the fact that dental hygiene has improved leaps and bounds over the last century, the majority of adults have lost at least one tooth. Finding a proper tooth replacement is of the utmost importance, but with so many options, it can be difficult to know which one is best for you. Below, find more about the methods your dentist may recommend. There’s something right for every smile!
Crown and Bridge
A crown and bridge is a solution for 1 to 3 consecutively missing teeth. The natural teeth surrounding the gap are used as anchors, with a dental crown placed securely on each. Then, replacement teeth — known as “pontics” — fill in the empty space between. A crown and bridge is fixed, meaning it cannot be removed except with special tools by your dentist.
Some benefits of crown and bridge include:
- Customizable to match surrounding teeth
- Affordable
- Ready in a few weeks
- Prevents remaining teeth from shifting around
Dentures and Partials
Dentures and partials replace several missing teeth to an entire arch in the upper or lower jaw with a stable and lifelike prosthetic. A partial denture is used when some natural teeth remain and can be secured using brackets that are fixed to the remaining teeth. When all the teeth have been lost, a complete denture is secured using natural suction. A denture adhesive may provide additional security if needed.
Some benefits of dentures and partials include:
- Customizable for natural fit and appearance
- Affordable
- Completed in about a month
- Prevents remaining teeth from shifting around
Dental Implants
Patients who are eligible for dental implants should strongly consider this solution. A dental implant replaces the missing tooth structure as well as the visible crown that makes it possible to speak and chew. In this way, dental implants provide a comprehensive solution to tooth loss. Dental implants can be used to replace anything from a single missing tooth all the way to an entire arch of teeth — retaining a dental crown, a bridge, or a denture/partial.
Benefits of dental implants include:
- Promote oral and overall health
- Provide unsurpassed stability for the replacement tooth/teeth
- Look, fit, and feel just like the natural teeth
- Can last for a lifetime with proper maintenance
- And many more!
The only way to know for sure which option is right for you is to schedule an appointment with your dentist — don’t delay! Finding a suitable replacement is of the utmost importance.
Meet the Dentist
Dr. Andrew Tadros has been serving the greater East Dallas area with exceptional dentistry since 2016. Originally from California, Dr. Tadros loves Dallas and can’t wait to meet you and your family. To learn more about Del Rey Dental or your restorative dentistry options, you are invited to contact the office at (469) 917-7444.