A healthy smile is something that many of us can take for granted. There are several reasons that someone may be missing teeth, including gum disease, severe tooth decay, injury, and even genetic conditions. No matter the cause, it is no secret that a missing tooth can be especially detrimental to someone’s confidence. Moreover, missing teeth can also have a negative impact on someone’s greater oral health and wellbeing. Left untreated, missing teeth can lead to painful or uncomfortable chewing and speech, or even to the shifting of remaining teeth into these empty spots.

Fortunately, with such advancements in dentistry, there are several tooth replacement options for you to consider. The best method to replace missing teeth for you can depend on several factors, including how many teeth you are missing, the condition of your existing teeth, your budget, and your personal lifestyle. In this blog, we will go over 5 of the most common options for replacing a missing tooth so you can restore your beautiful smile and renew your confidence.

Dental implants are considered a permanent solution to replace a missing tooth. They are an ideal option for patients with both a single missing tooth or multiple missing teeth, either in the same area or scattered around the mouth. The root of the missing tooth is first replaced by a metal screw, which once fully healed fuses itself with the jaw bone. Unlike other options, these root replacements help to keep the jaw bone stimulated, which prevents bone resorption and bone loss. Once these metal roots are fully healed, the dental crown is then placed on top. If properly cared for, a dental implant can last a lifetime, making it an attractive option for many.

• Permanent solution
• Very natural look
• Very durable and functional
• Prevents bone loss
• No involvement of surrounding teeth, therefore they remain intact

• Costly
• Surgery is involved, which can lead to complications
• Longer process than other options

Read More: What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

Removable dental bridges are a popular choice for replacing a missing tooth. The natural teeth on either side of the gap act as the support for the bridge, either fitted with crowns or with the use of other attachment methods. This tooth replacement option is ideal for patients with either a single missing tooth, or several missing in a row.

• Cost-effective
• Quick and Straightforward process
• Natural look

• You may be limited to soft foods at first
• Must be removed and cleaned daily
• Not as durable as other options and may cause discomfort

A fixed dental bridge is a false tooth or row of false teeth that is held in place by the adjacent teeth, which are usually crowned. Unlike a removable dental bridge, a fixed bridge is cemented in place and can only be removed professionally, making it a more durable and stable option. Like the removable option, this tooth replacement method is ideal for patients with either a single missing tooth, or several missing in a row. There are four main types of dental bridges: traditional, cantilever, Maryland, and implant-supported.

• Quick and straightforward process
• Natural look
• Cost-effective compared to implants
• No need to remove and clean compared to removable bridge

• Must be replaced every 5-15 years
• Sometimes requires the shaving and crowning of perfectly healthy adjacent teeth for attachment

Removable partial dentures are perfect for patients with both a missing single tooth or several missing teeth. Prosthetic teeth are attached to a pink or gum-colored base which fits into the mouth to fill in missing teeth, sometimes held in place by the help of a metal frame. The partial denture is attached to remaining teeth.

• Cost-effective compared to other options
• Less invasive compared to other options
• Prevents other teeth from shifting or moving

• Can be uncomfortable
• Must be removed and cleaned daily
• In some cases, adjacent teeth may experience plaque build up, gum disease, tooth decay, or trauma

A removable complete denture is an ideal solution for anyone with complete tooth loss, either on the top arch, bottom arch, or both. This method works the same way as a removable partial denture, but fits around the entire arch of the mouth instead of a smaller area.

• Cost-effective compared to other options
• Less invasive compared to other options

• Your Content GoeCan be uncomfortable
• Must be removed and cleaned dailys Here

Ultimately, the right tooth replacement option for you is something that should be discussed between you and a dental professional, who can offer expert advise. If you are considering missing tooth replacement and are in the Philadelphia, PA region, look no further than Independence Dental Group and Dr. Steven Gelbart, the top cosmetic dentist in the area. Specializing in dental and cosmetic dentistry, he offers a full range of dental services to improve the appearance of your teeth and smile with state of the art technology. Contact us today to learn more about our services and about how you can restore your beautiful smile and confidence today!