There are multiple options for patients who want to replace missing teeth. Dental implants are a popular choice because of their benefits; however, some patients may prefer another option.
There are several tooth replacement options available to most patients.
Implant surgery involves placing titanium posts in the jaw of the patient to replace missing teeth roots. Once the jawbone has bonded to the implant, a dentist can attach crowns to replace the missing teeth.
Dental bridges are one or more artificial teeth that are held in place by crowns on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. Bridges are cemented to the crowns to keep them in place.
Removable dentures are artificial teeth attached to a plastic base that is shaded to match the patient's gums. Dentures are held in place with adhesive.
Similar to traditional dentures in other respects, implant-supported models are held in place by implants instead of adhesives.
Each of the tooth replacement options has benefits and drawbacks.
Implants look and function similarly to natural teeth. Implants are durable and can last a lifetime with proper care. Dental implants stimulate the jawbone and help prevent bone loss. Implants do not require the adjacent teeth to be altered. Implants allow patients to brush and floss normally.
Patients who do not have sufficient jawbone mass or who have health conditions that may interfere with healing, such as diabetes or heart disease, may not be able to have the procedure. Additionally, the procedure may take many months to complete because of the healing time required for the jawbone to bond to the implants.
Fixed bridges replicate the appearance and function of natural teeth. They usually cost less than dental implants. Fixed bridges do not need to be removed to be cleaned.
Bridges are not as durable as implants and may wear out or break. Bridges require the adjacent teeth to be reduced so that crowns can be placed. Bridges do not replace missing tooth roots and do not prevent bone loss from occurring.
Dentures are usually less expensive than implants or bridges. Dentures are a less invasive treatment than bridges or implants.
Dentures may slide around in the mouth making chewing and speaking difficult. Some foods are difficult to eat with dentures. Dentures require the use of messy adhesives and must be removed for cleaning. Dentures do not replace missing tooth roots, which can lead to bone loss.
Implant-supported dentures do not move around like removable dentures. They are easy to clean. The implants stimulate the jawbone, which helps prevent bone loss.
Implant-supported dentures cost more than traditional dentures. Not all patients can have dental implants.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Am I a Candidate for Dental Implants in Houston, TX
Dental implants may be an option for you if you are healthy enough to have the procedure and have sufficient jawbone to anchor the implants. However, other options may better fit your budget, dental needs, health, and preferences.
Request an appointment or call Midtown Dental - The Gallery of Smiles at 713-979-4127 for an appointment in our Houston office.
There are many benefits to dental implants, and once healed, implants look and feel much like natural teeth. Despite these benefits, they may not be the right choice for everyone. It is important to speak with a dentist and consider the current condition of your health before going forward with the procedure.Before you can get…
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral function. Patients who take the time to understand the implant process enjoy successful outcomes.A dental implant is a titanium post that a dentist anchors to the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. After the implant successfully integrates with the jawbone, the…
According to the American Dental Association, dental implants are stable because the jawbone grows around them. This process is known as osseointegration, and it is essential for the success of an implant. Several elements can affect this process, and patients undergoing the dental implant procedure should understand what affects an implant fusing to the bone.…
A dentist recommends teeth whitening for patients that have mild to moderate teeth stains. They use a peroxide bleach that can safely target and remove stains on visible front teeth, improving the color and shade of your smile. The following is a discussion of professional teeth whitening and how to determine if treatment is right…
General dentists spend a significant portion of their time performing preventative dental treatments. These treatments reduce the odds of common dental issues, like tooth decay and gum disease, from developing in the future. Preventative care saves patients time and money by making it less likely that they will develop severe dental problems that call for…
