Individuals who are missing teeth may develop a bacterial infection without the prompt treatment of gaps. This will push the surrounding teeth out of alignment and make it difficult for patients to talk or eat well. Discuss with your dentist the options available for replacing missing or damaged teeth to see which is best for you. The ideal tooth replacement option should feel and appear natural.

Replacement Options for Missing and Broken Teeth

Dental Implants

These treatments prevent jawbone loss following the loss of a tooth. Dentists surgically implant them into the jawbone to artificially replace both a root and a crown. The artificial root masks the absence of a tooth from the body's senses, safeguarding the jawbone and avoiding bone loss. Teeth implants can replace a single tooth, several missing teeth, or all missing teeth.

Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is an ideal option for replacing teeth primarily used for chewing. In this case, the dentist uses a permanent bridge to fill up the space left by one or more missing teeth. Many visits to the dentist are necessary because it takes a long time to install the implant, customize the bridge, and place the bridge where the lost teeth were. 

Once the bridge gets secured, it behaves, looks, and feels like a set of natural teeth. The most admirable aspect of this technique is it is much less expensive than getting a dental tooth implant.

Resin-retained Bridge 

This is a minimally invasive approach to restoring missing teeth. It is an excellent option for individuals missing their front teeth because these do not endure as much pressure as the other teeth. The teeth on both sides of the bridge hold it in place. These bridges do not last as long as fixed bridges, but they cost much less.

Complete and Removable Partial Dentures

The purpose of dentures, a standard option made of acrylic with a metal framework, is to replace missing teeth. Partial dentures replace one or two lost teeth. Complete dentures are ideal when an entire dental arch is missing or extracted.

Besides being quick and noninvasive, dentures are less expensive than bridges or implants. They need daily cleaning and frequent replacement and do not look as good as other dental replacement options. Dentures may be a good alternative for those whose natural teeth cannot support a bridge or do not want implant surgery. 

Porcelain Veneers

The application of ceramic veneers is another option for teeth that are partially gone. Thin porcelain shells called veneers attach to the front of teeth. Custom-made porcelain veneers can improve or complement your current smile.

For more on replacing missing teeth, visit SmileOn Dentistry at our office in Marina Del Rey, California. Call (310) 822-0202 to book an appointment today.