In modern dentistry, there are a variety of different tooth replacement options available to patients. Missing or compromised teeth can make it difficult to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. Over time, they can also lead to other health problems, including shifting teeth, bite alignment issues, and even jaw bone loss. Tooth replacements like dental implants help reduce your risk of these issues and keep your smile healthy and attractive.
At Smart Arches, we’re all about helping patients from all walks of life achieve optimal oral health and improved confidence. We offer free consultations and we’re here to answer any questions you have about your tooth replacement options to help you make an informed decision.
Keep reading to learn more about all your options and get in touch to discuss your specific smile goals!
Who needs a tooth replacement?
According to the American College of Prosthodontics, about 178 million American adults are missing at least one tooth and approximately 40 million are missing all of their teeth.
But people with missing teeth aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a tooth replacement. They can also be highly effective for patients with a number of other dental problems, including cracked, broken, or severely decayed teeth.
If you have missing or damaged teeth, then a dental replacement may be the ideal solution to restore your smile and improve your health and confidence.
Types of tooth replacements
Dentures
Dentures are a popular choice for patients missing all or several of their teeth. They are usually removable and can come as a full or partial set depending on your needs.
Unlike permanent replacements, dentures require specialized upkeep to maintain. This includes cleaning them by brushing and soaking them in a denture-cleaning solution. You may also need to replace them if they become damaged or misshapen. If they’re not fitted properly or they’re not secured with adequate adhesive material, they can shift or fall out while talking or chewing.
Dental implants
In the field of restorative dentistry, dental implants are the gold standard. They can be used to replace a single missing or damaged tooth, or even an entire row of teeth using an advanced method called All-on-4 dental implants.
During an implant procedure, we place an implant (a small, screw-like post, generally made of biocompatible titanium) into the jawbone. This post provides effective, long-lasting structural support for tooth restoration such as a crown or bridge.
There are several advantages to choosing dental implants over dentures as your tooth replacement treatment. They include:
- A more natural appearance
- Better structural support for your facial anatomy
- A more permanent solution
- Easier maintenance over time
- Lower risk of experiencing bone loss
Types of implant-supported tooth restorations
Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-colored cap that can be secured to an implant using an abutment. An implant-supported crown is an ideal restoration for patients who need only one or two tooth replacements. We’ll create a custom crown that is highly durable and looks and feels exactly like the rest of your teeth.
Bridges
Implant-supported bridges can be used to fill gaps in your smile by using surrounding implants as anchors. This makes bridges a wonderful option for patients with multiple missing teeth in a row. Just like individual crowns, they are composed of high-quality materials and are custom-made to fit in seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
Implant-supported dentures
For those missing several or all of their teeth, implant-supported dentures are the reliable, permanent alternative to removable dentures. Rather than using denture adhesive, your dentures will be attached directly to your implants. With this method, your tooth replacements will be secure, natural-looking, and permanent.
Choosing the right tooth replacement solution for your smile
There are a number of factors that can impact the right tooth-replacement treatment for you. These include how many teeth you’re missing, whether or not you’re experiencing bone loss, your smile goals and preferences, and more.
The first step in choosing a treatment option is to consult with a dental restoration specialist and get your questions and concerns addressed.
At Smart Arches, we offer free consultations. Our knowledgeable and compassionate specialists will examine your smile, discuss all available options with you, and help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for dental implants or another type of tooth replacement.
Let our Smart Arches implant specialists restore your smile!
Left untreated, missing or damaged teeth can lead to a variety of oral health issues. If you’re suffering from tooth loss or dealing with damaged or infected teeth, we’re here to transform your smile, improve your oral health, and help you regain your confidence.
At Smart Arches, we specialize in dental implant procedures. We use advanced techniques and technologies to provide individualized care and give you the results you’re looking for.
To schedule a FREE dental implant consultation, contact us online or call one of our locations. We’re here to help!
