Replace Missing Teeth

So you have lost one or more teeth, what are the options? At Stirling Dental we take the time to set out all of your options and find a solution perfect for you.

First option, of course you can just leave the gap as it is. Depending on where the missing tooth/teeth are, this can result in cosmetic concern, movement of the adjacent and opposing teeth and loss of jaw bone which can affect future treatment option.

Second option is denture. This is normally the first option most people elect for as it is relatively quick to make.

Third option is a dental bridge, adjacent teeth are crowned are crowned and the missing tooth is joined to them. This is a great option if the bone is not suitable for dental implant. However the effect of having crowns on adjacent teeth means extra pressure placed on them so extra care should be taken or else breakage and damage to those teeth can occur.

And the final option is dental implants; this is the best option available for missing teeth if the jaw bone is suitable. The adjacent teeth are not affected in any degree and this provides for best chewing function with fantastic cosmetic appearance.

Replace Missing Teeth - Options

No Tooth Replacement

The first option is not replacing missing teeth at all and leaving the gap as is. Depending on where the missing tooth or multiple missing teeth are, the results of not attending to the gap can range from cosmetic concerns to the movement of the adjacent and opposing teeth and loss of jaw bone. These issues can affect your options when it comes to future dental treatments and adversely impact your dental health, increasing the likelihood of gum disease.  

2. Dentures 

The second option is receiving dentures, also known as false teeth. This is the option most people choose, as dentures are relatively quick to manufacture and flexible to patients' needs, ranging from partial dentures to complete dentures. 

3. Dental Bridges 

The third option is a dental bridge. In this procedure, the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth, referred to as the abutment teeth, are given dental crowns. The missing tooth is then joined to them. This is a great option if the bone is not suitable for dental implants. However, the effect of having crowns on adjacent teeth means more pressure is placed on them, so extra care should be taken, or else breakage and damage to those teeth can occur, requiring more dental treatment. 

4. Dental Implants

The final option is dental implant surgery. A dental implant procedure is the best option available for missing teeth if the jaw bone is suitable and has not experienced bone loss. With dental implants, the adjacent natural teeth are not affected to any degree, promoting optimal chewing function with a fantastic cosmetic appearance.

Replace Missing Teeth - Cost 

When it comes to deciding whether you want to replace missing teeth, cost is a factor most people will consider, from the cost of dental implants to the potential expenses down the line if no action is taken. 

The best way for us to assess the cost of the treatment most suited to your needs is to conduct an examination during a dental appointment. Book yours here.