If you’re missing a tooth you have a lot of options. The least advisable is to do nothing! It’s not just about aesthetics…Replacing a lost tooth is important to restoring maximum function, maintaining the alignment of surrounding teeth, and preserving facial contours. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) reports that 92% of adults between the ages of 20-64 suffer from tooth decay. Similarly, the amount of individuals who suffer from missing teeth is a rather large number as well. Fortunately, with today’s dental advancements, there are a number of solutions. At Gentle Dental Family Care we specialize in all of the options for replacing a missing tooth. Our dentists are among some of the top rated practitioners and have helped restore the smiles of many through these procedures.
1. Dental Implant
A dental implant is a surgical procedure in which a replacement tooth root is placed and fused with the jawbone. After that a crown is placed into the root to have the appearance of a natural tooth.
Dental implants provide the look and feel of real natural teeth and last for decades without needing to be repaired or replaced. Dental implants can be a great option for replacing a single tooth, however they may not be the best option for replacing multiple missing teeth.
Dental implants require surgery and typically cost more than bridges or dentures.
2. Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth. This is a popular option for people with multiple missing teeth who want the look of implants without the high cost.
The process of implementing a fixed bridge usually involves multiple trips to the dentist, as the process of placing the implant, customizing the bridge and placing the bridge in the location of the missing teeth takes time.
Once the bridge is in place, however, a fixed dental bridge looks, feels and functions like natural teeth, does not require removal for cleaning and is typically much more cost effective than a dental tooth implant.
3. Resin-Retained Bridge
A resin-retained bridge is often much less invasive than a fixed bridge.
While a fixed bridge is best for teeth that are relied upon for chewing, a resin-retained bridge can be a good alternative for missing front teeth, which typically don’t endure as much pressure.
A resin-retained bridge attaches onto the neighboring teeth on each side. Although they are known for being less durable than a fixed bridge, they also tend to be much less expensive.
4. Removable Partial Denture
A removable partial denture consists of replacement teeth for a small section of missing teeth and look and function as normal.
While a removable partial denture is great for chewing and aesthetic appeal, they are far less durable than a tooth implant or bridge and can become uncomfortable when worn for an extended amount of time.
But they are typically the least expensive tooth replacement option available and are easy to repair if any damage occurs.
5. Removable Complete Denture
Depending on how many teeth you currently have, removable complete dentures can be fairly invasive and require multiple trips to the dentist.
Unlike a removable partial denture, where only a section of missing teeth is replaced, a removable complete denture is used to replace most, if not all, teeth.
While a removable complete denture is both aesthetic and functional, they can be uncomfortable and aren’t to be worn for 24 hours a day.
Your Dental Health
When it comes to your health, both that of your mouth and your overall well-being, trust in the dentists at Gentle Dental Family Care. Your dentist will be able to identify any symptoms and send you to the right professionals for further care. Gentle Dental Family Care is the best dental practice in the Kew Gardens, Queens NY 11415 area and we are open on Sundays as well as late evenings. We’ve performed hundreds of dental implants, bridges, and all-on-four procedures. We are the best dental implant dentists in Queens. For a teeth cleaning or exam, we recommend coming into the office or booking an appointment here with one of our talented dental professionals. All new patients may also take advantage of our $99 Cleaning Special that includes an exam and x-rays. To set up your appointment give us a call at (718) 849-9797. We also welcome walk-ins, to accommodate patients with a busy schedule. We hope to see you soon!
