When it comes to replacing a missing tooth, you can be quite confused as there is more than one way to do it. Depending on your budget, the condition of your broken tooth and your general health conditions, there are several options you can choose from. Usually, your dentist will order a few routine health exams before determining the best replacement option for you depending on your condition and budget. Here are the most commonly used replacement options.
Partial removable denture
A removable partial denture is a good option for replacing a front tooth. This denture can be worn during the day time and can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. However, in some cases, metal clasps may be required which can be visible at times when smiling or speaking. Another disadvantage is that partial removable dentures tend to move a bit when speaking or eating. This can cause significant discomfort. One advantage with these dentures is that you will not need to file any adjacent teeth to make space. Also, it is a fairly economical option. A full set of these dentures can replace all teeth.
Temporary dentures
Another solution to missing teeth is using temporary dentures. Temporary dentures are also called flippers as they tend to flip in and out quite easily. Usually, temporary dentures are used when a tooth is being restored with a bridge or an implant but the dentist needs the site to heal. Most temporary dentures are akin to partial removable dentures except that they are much less sturdy, bulky and even less expensive. Flippers can be made without adjusting the neighbouring teeth.
Bridge
A bridge can only be used when there are teeth on either side of the missing tooth. A bridge is usually a fixed solution and helps the teeth to stay cemented. Fixing a bridge to replace missing tooth involves altering teeth on either side to connect the replacement tooth with the adjacent teeth. And this is one of the biggest disadvantages of a bridge. Another disadvantage is that sometimes the bridge of the lower jaw does not last long since, as the jaw flaxes, the bridge can spring a leak on one side allowing decay or bacteria to seep in. Generally, a bridge can be a replacement for one or more tooth if there is enough support.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the best ways to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants can feel quite natural even when chewing brushing or smiling. The implant usually replaces an actual root of a missing tooth and also heals in the bone for several months. There are several advantages to dental implants. You do not need to alter the adjacent teeth when using dental implants. Also, there is a negligible difference between an implant and natural teeth and your implants will look and feel just as natural as your teeth when smiling or eating.
If you are thinking of getting a missing or broken tooth replaced, talk to Dentistry in Newmarket, Newmarket’s best dental clinic for families and individuals for all kinds of routine and emergency dental works.