A Beginner’s Guide to Missing Teeth Replacement: Understanding Your Options
Missing teeth can be a source of insecurity and embarrassment, but it doesn’t have to be that way! Thankfully, with the advancement in dental technology, numerous options for missing teeth replacement exist.Â
Today, we’ll introduce you to 7 of the most popular and effective solutions available.Â
From dental implants to dentures, you’ll be able to weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the best one for you.
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Missing Teeth Replacement: 7 Solutions to Consider
While there are plenty of ways to replace missing teeth, it’s not an easy decision to make. Someone with one rotten tooth is going to have a completely different dental plan than someone who has multiple teeth that need replacement.
Cost, time, and your personal comfort also play a crucial role in deciding how and when to replace your missing teeth.
With these caveats in mind, let’s explore your options.
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Solution 1: Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular and long-lasting option for missing teeth replacement. They’re designed to mimic the look, feel, and function of natural teeth.Â
Implants are a titanium post that’s surgically placed into the jawbone, a connecting abutment, and a crown. The crown is custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth.
Cons: The downside to this option is that it takes the longest and costs the most money.
Solution 2: Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is another option for missing teeth replacement. Bridges are made up of two or more crowns attached to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. The crowns hold a false tooth, called a pontic, in place, filling the void left by the missing tooth.Â
Bridges are non-invasive and can be made of different materials, such as ceramic, porcelain, or zirconia.
Cons:Â This is not a viable option if the surrounding teeth are weak or have signs of tooth decay.
Solution 3: Dentures
Dentures have been used for centuries as a solution for missing teeth replacement. They’re removable appliances that can replace several missing teeth or an entire arch.Â
The best thing about dentures is that they’re custom to each person. Your dentist will use a mold to get your dentures to fit your mouth perfectly (they can even be adjusted over time as your mouth changes). They’re a cost-effective option and are easy to clean.
Cons: Much like dental bridges, if you want to replace your teeth with the least amount of upkeep, dentures aren’t the best option. However, if you’re going to affordability, this is a great place to start!
Solution 4: Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are similar to complete dentures but only replace a few missing teeth instead of an entire arch. They use a metal framework to anchor the denture, which can be removed for cleaning.
Partial dentures are a great option if you have several missing teeth but still have some natural teeth remaining.
Cons: A partial denture can be uncomfortable to wear and a hassle because you need to take them out to clean it every day.
Solution 5: Veneers for Missing Teeth
Veneers are a cosmetic option for missing teeth replacement. They’re made of porcelain and are custom-made to match the color and shape of your surrounding teeth.
Veneers are bonded to the front surface of your natural tooth and can be used to replace one or several missing teeth.
Cons: Veneers may not be covered by your insurance and cost more than dentures or bridges.
Solution 6: Resin-Bonded Bridges
Resin-bonded bridges are a non-invasive option for missing teeth replacement.
First, your dentist will create a false tooth. They’ll attach that to your natural teeth on either side of the gap with a resin. Then, they’ll use resin to bond the natural teeth and the false tooth, creating a bridge. Resin-bonded bridges are a cost-effective option and are ideal for front teeth replacement.
Cons: May need replacement sooner than veneers or dental implants.
Solution 7: Maryland Bonded Bridges
Maryland-bonded bridges are similar to resin-bonded bridges but use metal wings instead of resin to hold the false tooth in place.
Your dentist will ensure the metal wings fit perfectly to the back of your natural teeth and that the false tooth attaches to the metal wings. Maryland bonded bridges are a good option for those who are missing one or two teeth and want a non-invasive solution.
Cons: Probably the least comfortable option, but the most affordable.
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Missing Teeth Replacement Cost
As you can see, price is a huge factor when deciding on options for tooth replacement.Â
However, the actual cost of replacing your missing teeth isn’t as simple as stating it costs between $500-$2,000. There are nuances involved, such as:
- How much does your insurance cover?
- What type of material is your crown or veneer made from?
- Where do you live?
- What other procedures (e.g., a root canal) do you need before replacing your teeth?
Lucky for you, we have procedure and price guides for almost all your missing teeth replacement options! Get to know the real price of each by clicking on each guide below:
- HOW MUCH DOES IT COST FOR A DENTAL IMPLANT?
- EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VENEERS
- WHAT IS A FULL MOUTH RECONSTRUCTION?
- DENTAL CROWN OPTIONSÂ
- HOW CAN I FIX MY TEETH WITH NO MONEY?
Conclusion
Missing teeth replacement has come a long way, with several options available to suit different needs and budgets. Each solution has pros and cons, from dental implants to dentures.
It’s important to discuss your options with a dental professional to determine the best solution for your specific needs. That way, we can help you find the best way to restore your smile and confidence with the right missing teeth replacement solution!
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