Dentures have long been considered an adequate solution for tooth replacement. However, they can be uncomfortable, and they are incapable of preventing jaw collapse. Continue reading to discover other options for replacing missing teeth.
Top Alternatives to Dentures
- Dental Bridges: A bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitively to adjacent teeth or dental implants.
- Dental Implants: A dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the bone of the jaw or skull to support a dental prosthesis such as a crown, bridge, denture, facial prosthesis or to act as an orthodontic anchor.
Dental Bridges
Pro: Designed to replace one tooth or multiple missing teeth in a row, dental bridges can restore a smile while providing a durable, natural-looking result. Dental bridges come in many materials, including all-ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal , and gold. This gives you a wide range of choices to best suit your needs, preferences, and budget. Bridges are customized to fit snugly, and they are designed to match the color of your natural teeth. Furthermore, maintenance is practically the same as with your natural teeth.
Con: During the bridge placement procedure, the teeth that sit on either side of the missing teeth will need to prepared and shaved down. They will then be used as supports to hold the bridge. If these teeth already have damage or decay, this is be an ideal technique. Depending on your situation, there may be a small risk of bone loss over time in the area where your teeth are missing if you use a bridge rather than a dental implant.
Dental Implants
Pro: Dental implants actually become fused with the bone in your jaw, and they stop the loss of bone volume as well as density. With a success rate over 95% , implants are regarded as the most reliable tooth replacement system. They’re also the most durable, as well. They require only the standard care you’d provide for your natural teeth like regular brushing and flossing, and periodic dental-office visits. With proper care dental implants they can last the rest of your life.
Dental implants also look and feel just like your natural teeth. You can bite, chew, speak without the worry that they may come loose. They aren’t subject to decay, and they don’t compromise your oral hygiene the way partial dentures sometimes can.
Con: Dental implants are initially more expensive than dentures. However, keep in mind that you’re paying for something that offers high quality, long-term service, and value. When looked at from this perspective, you’ll see why dental implants are recognized as the most cost effective way to replace missing teeth.
Choosing the Best Fit For You
When it comes to your oral health, trust in the dentists at Gentle Dental Family Care. We are the best dental practice in the Kew Gardens Queens, NY 11415 area. We are open on Sundays as well as late evenings. To determine which alternative to Dentures can work for you, we recommend coming into the office to have a complimentary Implant Consultation with one of our dental professionals. To set up your appointment give us a call at 718-849-9797. We also welcome walk-ins, if you you have a busy schedule. We hope to see you soon!
