Teeth are not just useful parts of our body, but they also play a role in our body image and self confidence. We all want to smile and show a row of straight, white teeth. But what happens when you lose a tooth?
There are so many reasons that can lead to a missing tooth:
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Mechanical shock that breaks the tooth close to the gum line.
Any dentist will do their best to salvage a patient’s tooth. Extraction is the last resort. But once it happens, you do not have to go through the rest of your life with a gap between your teeth.
Lost Teeth Can Be Replaced
Dentistry has evolved a lot in the last 100 years. Now, dental implants Parker technicians can make artificial teeth that are a perfect match for the patients’ existing teeth. Even if you cannot afford the most expensive and customized tooth replacement option, you can still get dentures or bridges.
The choices depend on several factors, including the number and position of the missing teeth. For frontal teeth, dentists will recommend a solution that is both functional and esthetic. If the missing tooth is towards the back of your mouth, a functional tooth replacement will do.
Types of Tooth Replacements
Let us examine your options, with their pros and cons.
- Dental Implants
Dental implants are the closest tooth replacement option to real teeth. They are made on order, following the dentist’s specifications in terms of:
- Material
- Size
- Shape
- Color.
Pros: Dental implants Parker experts confirm that a well made dental implant looks indistinguishable from a real tooth. They are also very strong, thus you won’t feel any difference when you are biting down on food or chewing.
Cons: Implants represent the most expensive tooth replacement option. A single implant can cost between $3,000 and $6,000.
- Implant-Supported Bridge
The implant-supported bridge solves the problem of several missing teeth in an esthetic and economic manner. Instead of several implants, only the ends in the gap are dental implants. The other teeth replacements are not screwed in the jawbone, but supported by the implants at the two ends.
Pros: This is a good option for several missing teeth at the front of the mouth. You want a solution that looks as natural as possible, without spending a fortune to replace your lost teeth.
Cons: This is not a permanent solution, because the bridge needs to be replaced from time to time. Also, you need to see your dentist frequently to check on the implant-supported bridge and advise if you should have it changed.
- Removable Dentures
The most economic solution, removable dentures are clasped in place over the gums. They do not have the same natural look as implants, but they are fully functional and are crafted with care.
Pros: if you are on a budget, dentures are the best solution to fill the gaps in your mouth. Also, if they get damaged, they are easy to repair.
Cons: Many people say that they still feel dentures as a foreign object in their mouth after a long time of wearing them. You must also remember to remove them every day to clean and sanitize them.