Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

Most of the time, it's best to have your missing teeth replaced as quickly as possible to keep your mouth healthy and prevent loss of tooth structure. Today, our dentists in Taber share some tooth replacement options to help you determine which one is right for you.

Do My Missing Teeth Have to Be Replaced?

If missing teeth go untreated, it could result in a range of oral health issues. Since the remaining teeth will be at risk of shifting out of place problems such as discomfort, difficulty chewing, wear and tear on the surrounding teeth, and misalignment of the bite could arise.

A condition known as facial collapse occurs when the jaw bone in the area where the teeth are missing begins to deteriorate, eventually leading to the loss of facial function.

Options for Replacing Your Missing Teeth

When you attend your appointment at Crawford Dental Clinic your dentist will explain to you the tooth replacement options they have available and help you select the one that suits you best. Here are the tooth replacement options your dentist could have available:

Dentures

 Dentures are a removable tooth replacement option. It can take some time to get used to the procedure, and the outcomes will never be exactly the same as having your natural teeth. Modern dentures, on the other hand, are extremely natural-looking, comfortable, and highly functional, and they are the least expensive option for replacing missing teeth in most cases.

Depending on your requirements, you can choose between two different types of dentures. Full dentures are designed to replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures can be used to replace a single missing tooth or a group of teeth in a row. Based on the impressions taken of your mouth, your dentures will be made specifically for you.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed tooth replacement that is attached to the teeth or dental implants on either side of the gap where the tooth is missing. Since dental bridges can't be removed they can be a  secure and comfortable fit for patients. Following its installation, your dental bridge will last for many years before it needs to be replaced.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium posts that act as a root for an artificial tooth, they are surgically implanted into the jawbone to restore tooth function. To complete the restoration, a dental crown is placed on top of the tooth.

The dental implant and crown combination has the appearance, feel, and function of a natural tooth in almost every way except for the colour. While implants tend to be more expensive and invasive than crowns or bridges, many people find that the natural look and feel they provide are worth the investment.

If you have any more questions about replacing missing teeth or the replacement options we have available, contact our Taber dentists and book an appointment.