You should always replace missing teeth as soon as possible. Failing to do so can lead to dental complications like misaligned teeth, bone tissue loss and a smile you may no longer be proud of. Fortunately for those who have lost some of their real teeth, there are a handful of options when it comes to replacing them with artificial teeth.

Missing Teeth Replacement Options

Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are typically used by people who are missing some of their front teeth. The prosthetic is worn by the patient during the day, and it is taken out at night when it is time to go to bed. Partial dentures often utilize metal clasps to help them stay in place. These claps can be visible when smiling or speaking, and this is one of the biggest drawbacks of these devices. Another is the fact that it needs to be taken out and cleaned each night and soaked in denture solution overnight.

Full Dentures

Here is another popular option when it comes to replacing natural teeth. Dentures are the most economical option for those who are trying to replace missing teeth, especially if they have already lost a majority of their real teeth.

Dentures have two main parts: a set of artificial teeth and a base that holds the teeth in place and connects it to the wearer's mouth. The main disadvantage of dentures is the fact that the bottom arc has a tendency to move around in the patient's mouth and that it does not address the bone tissue loss that comes with missing teeth.

Bridge

A dental bridge is another prosthetic that can be used to get rid of a gap in a patient's smile. Bridges are typically a permanent solution that stays in once inserted by a dentist. The two teeth closest to the gap on both sides are often used as anchors for the bridge. These teeth are known as abutment teeth and are normally protected with crowns for increased support.

The main disadvantages of bridges is the fact they fail to address the bone tissue loss that comes with missing teeth, they can be difficult to clean and the two teeth that serve as anchors are often altered during the installation. Bridges are best reserved for people who are missing two to five teeth right next to each other.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth. It is a solution that restores the natural look and function of the patient's teeth. These prosthetics serve as a replacement for the natural teeth roots that fall out with teeth, as well as a replacement for the lost tooth. Implants offer virtually no disadvantages since they allow patients to eat, speak and clean their mouths just like they always have. Implants can last an entire lifetime with proper maintenance.

Will my missing tooth replacement options be influenced by my age?

At JD Ross D.D.S. Inc, our goal is to provide you with a tooth replacement solution that is beautiful, natural-looking, and will work for your lifestyle. Age, while a factor in healthcare, has less to do with your ideal tooth replacement solution than what your lifestyle is like. For example, you could be a senior and not want to wear dentures, even though they are common. Regardless of your age, if you lead an active lifestyle, dental implants could be the best solution simply because they are the sturdiest option and will allow you to maintain all of your activities.

One thing to be aware of, and this does not have to be age-related, is that when you lose a tooth, the process of resorption starts. This is when the body starts to leach calcium from your jawbone and distribute it to the rest of the body. The longer you wait to visit our Ventura dental office and have the tooth replaced, the less bone density you will have. When you then go to replace the tooth, your options could be more limited. This makes losing a tooth an urgent matter to attend to.

Want to learn more about tooth replacement options? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ross today!