If you’ve lost one or more teeth, the next decision you’ll have to make is how to replace them. A prosthodontist—a dentist who specializes in prosthetic teeth—can help you decide what is the best option for you.
Options for Tooth Replacement—Dental Implants
Dental implants are the favored method of tooth replacement today because they provide a variety of advantages over traditional dentures. Whether they’re used to replace a single tooth or a full arc of teeth, they are:
- More comfortable than dentures
- Stationary and permanent
- Carefully constructed to match your other teeth in shape, size, and color
- Equipped with an artificial root that stimulates bone regeneration
Implants are made up of a titanium artificial root and a visible prosthetic tooth made of porcelain or a tooth-colored resin. The root is set directly into the jawbone, creating a strong, permanent foundation for the tooth. To ensure a successful implant procedure, our implant dentist or prosthodontist will discuss any issues you might have that could affect long-term healing.
Options for Tooth Replacement—Dentures
If you’re not a good candidate for dental implants, dentures may prove to be the best option for you. Today’s dentures are much more comfortable than they have been in the past, since they’re made of lighter materials and can be much less bulky. In addition, an implant-secured denture is an option for some people whose jawbones can’t support traditional implants.
Dentures have been used in some form or another for hundreds—or possibly even thousands—of years. They consist of a base that rests against the gums and that supports the prosthetic teeth. Though dentures are still widely used, they have some drawbacks, especially when compared to implants. These include:
- They don’t stimulate bone growth
- They can shift in the mouth or even fall out
- They require re-lining or even complete replacement from time to time
For one or two missing teeth, a crown and bridge or a partial denture can also be a viable option. Your prosthodontist can evaluate your goals and determine what will work best for your individual case.
Our team is ready to help you, so contact our office today!
