There are many options for replacing single teeth or multiple teeth. Dental implants generally have the most going for them, but the other options definitely have their place as well.
Dental implants. Implants have revolutionized the world of tooth replacements. One of the greatest advantages that implants have over bridges is that they stand alone - they don't require any cutting or alteration of adjacent teeth. Implants can be used to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or to secure a denture in place. Dental implants alllow bone growth in the area of the missing tooth/teeth. Without the implant acting as a placeholder, the bone recedes over time, making it difficult to hold a denture in place.
There are other benefits of dental implants as well. They cannot get cavities or decay. The success rate of single dental implants is as high as 98% over the long term. Compare that with a bridge which has at least two teeth that can decay causing failure of the entire unit.
Dental bridges. Less bridges are being done because of the benefits of dental implants, bridges still represent an important way to address gaps in your smile from missing teeth. A bridge relies on the strength of the surrounding teeth for support and for that reason, it is even more important than ever to take care of your teeth after getting a dental bridge.
Removable partial dentures. This is a removable solution (it comes in and out of your mouth) and is usually reserved for cases where there are several missing teeth. For a single tooth, most people don't use this option unless it is a temporary fix until something more stable can be done.
For more information on your options for replacing missing teeth, contact Oyster Point Dentistry.
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