The 6 Best Dental Options For Replacing Missing Teeth

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Not everyone is blessed with healthy and strong teeth that allow them to eat comfortably and smile with confidence. That is why many individuals start to seek options for replacement teeth.

But everyone has different preferences and circumstances so it’s difficult to pick the best option. Choices can be based on a person’s unique situation, overall dental health, and budget.

Fortunately, with today’s dental advancements, everyone can find a solution that’s perfect for them. Here are some of the best options a dentist might recommend for you.

Dental Implants

One of the most common methods of tooth replacement is dental implants. They are fairly reliable and are the most similar to actual teeth.

Though, they are a permanent solution to replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth one by one. The process of dental implants can also be quite lengthy. It involves replacing your tooth’s roots with metal screws to act as an anchor for your implant tooth.

Flippers

A flipper is like a temporary partial denture that can move or flip in and out of its position. It works independently of any surrounding teeth and doesn’t require metal clasps.

The benefit of getting a flipper is that it doesn’t cost as much as other replacement options and is relatively painless. It also provides a temporary option until you decide to get a more permanent option.

Removable Partial Dentures

A removable partial denture acts as replacement teeth for a small section of missing teeth. They look and function like normal teeth. It’s perfect for aesthetic appeal and chewing food regularly.

However, they are not as durable as some other tooth replacement options like dental implants and can start to become uncomfortable when worn for too long.

They are one of the least expensive options out there and can be easily repaired in case of damage.

Removable Complete Dentures

Depending on the number of teeth that need to be replaced, your dentist might recommend you get a removable complete denture instead of a partial one. 

Unlike partial dentures that cover a small section of teeth, these are used to replace most, if not all of a person’s teeth. Though they can be quite invasive and require several trips to the dentist.

Implant-supported Bridge

Since the process of replacing each tooth with dental implants can be very long and unnecessary, an implant-supported bridge is the best option if you have many missing teeth. 

With an implant-supported bridge, only the teeth at the ends of your mouth are secured with implants, while the teeth in the middle are held in place without individual screws.

Tooth-supported Bridge

Rather than placing two implants into your teeth to support a bridge, a tooth-supported bridge uses your existing teeth. It provides the same look and feel as dental implants but requires no surgery so it’s less invasive.

In the procedure, a crown is placed on the teeth next to the missing ones and is fixed into place. However, the adjoining teeth can be damaged if the bridge isn’t fitted well.