What are my Options for Tooth Replacement?

Many adults lose one or more teeth in their lifetime due to oral diseases, accidents, or injuries. For some people, if left untreated, a missing tooth could lead to chewing problems, impaired speech, and lower confidence. Here at Signature Smile Dental, we want our patients to have a healthy and confident smile, so we would like to share a few options for tooth or teeth replacement.

Option 1: Dental Implants 

Dental implants are the most natural looking and feeling option for tooth replacement. This is because a dental implant involves the surgical placement of a metal post into your jaw bone found beneath your gums. This provides the strongest foundation possible while simulating roots found in your natural teeth. A replacement tooth, known as a crown, is then placed on the post, providing a natural appearance and long lasting replacement for your missing tooth.

Dental implants are often the preferred choice due to their natural appearance and sturdiness, however not everyone is a candidate for this treatment. You must be in good overall health, have healthy and diseases free gums, and have a jaw bone that can properly hold the replacement. If you do not meet these requirements, don’t worry, there are a few other options.

Option 2: Dental Bridges 

Dental Bridges, also known as a fixed partial denture, get its name because they “bridge-the-gap” in your smile. They work by bonding the replacement teeth to the sides of your pre-existing teeth. Resulting in proper chewing and speech capabilities and a fuller appearance to your smile.

A dental bridge are available in different materials. They can be made from porcelain, the same material used for veneers, for a more natural appearance, or even gold and alloy if you are looking for a more unique look.

Bridges do not have to be permanent. They make removable bridges that can be taken out for cleaning and placed back in by yourself. They also have bridges that can be bonded to dental implants as well, these are known as implant bridges.

Option 3: Dentures

Dentures are the best option if you are missing most, or all, of your teeth. This is most commonly found in elderly patients. When it comes to dentures, there are two options – complete dentures and overdentures.

Complete dentures are used when your have no remaining teeth, or a few that must be removed anyway. Complete dentures are placed over both your top and bottom gums, providing an entire new set of teeth.

Overdentures are used when you still have a few teeth that are strong enough to withhold the pressure of chewing. These dentures are removable and can be placed over your existing teeth to provide additional strength and support.

We hope this was informative for those of you looking into tooth replacement options. If you have any questions, feel free to give our Brooklyn Heights office a call to set up an appointment. Dr. Evelina Tolchinksy DDS and Dr. Inna Trogan DDS are here to give you back the smile you are looking for!