Losing a tooth can affect more than just your smile’s appearance. A missing tooth can also impact your ability to chew and speak properly, and over time, it can lead to bone loss in your jaw and cause the surrounding teeth to shift. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several effective and durable solutions to replace missing teeth and restore the health and function of your smile.
At Lacey Family Dental, we understand that choosing the right tooth replacement option is a significant decision. We are here to guide you through the process, helping you select the best solution for your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget.
Dental Implants: The Gold Standard
A dental implant is a permanent, long-lasting solution that functions and feels like a natural tooth. It consists of a small, biocompatible post (usually made of titanium) that is surgically placed into your jawbone to act as a tooth root. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached on top, providing a complete and stable replacement.
Pros:
- Looks and feels like a natural tooth.
- Preserves jawbone structure and prevents bone loss.
- Highly durable and can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Does not require support from adjacent teeth.
Cons:
- Requires a surgical procedure.
- Can be a more time-consuming process.
Dental Bridges: A Reliable Solution
A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to “bridge” the gap created by one or more missing teeth. It consists of two or more crowns that are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or teeth) suspended between them. These anchor teeth are called abutment teeth.
Pros:
- Restores chewing ability and aesthetics quickly.
- Generally a less invasive procedure than dental implants.
- Helps maintain the shape of your face and prevents teeth from shifting.
Cons:
- Requires preparation and reduction of healthy adjacent teeth.
- Has a shorter lifespan than dental implants.
- Can be more difficult to clean underneath.
Dentures: A Removable Option
Dentures are removable appliances that can replace a few missing teeth (partial dentures) or all teeth (full dentures). They are made of a gum-colored acrylic base that fits over your gums, with artificial teeth attached to it.
Pros:
- A cost-effective and non-invasive option.
- Can replace multiple teeth at once.
- Relatively quick to fabricate.
Cons:
- May shift or feel less stable than implants or bridges.
- Requires daily removal for cleaning.
- Does not prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Making the Right Choice for Your Smile
Deciding on the best tooth replacement option requires a thorough evaluation of your oral health, bone density, and personal preferences. At Lacey Family Dental, we will perform a comprehensive exam and discuss each option in detail, answering all your questions to help you make an informed decision. Our goal is to provide a solution that restores your smile, improves your confidence, and supports your long-term oral health.
If you are dealing with a missing tooth or teeth, don’t wait to explore your options. Contact our Lacey, WA office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a complete smile.