Non-Implant Missing Tooth Replacement Options
Dental implants are arguably the best solution for replacing missing teeth. They are quickly gaining popularity and helping patients restore the function and appearance of their smile. Implants are also incredibly expensive, and the treatment is time consuming. The following article will review non implant treatment options for the replacement of missing teeth.
Traditional Complete Dentures
Traditional dentures have been used for many years and rest on top of the gums. Dentures are one of the most affordable tooth-replacement options and typically last for 7-15 years. In some cases, dentures have a poor fit, are uncomfortable, require dietary restrictions, damage the gums, and can slide around in the mouth. Dentures require daily removal for cleaning. The lack of jawbone stimulation often results in bone resorption and deterioration which can ultimately affect the appearance of the patient’s facial structure.
Benefits
- Affordable
- Quick timeline for treatment
- Restore the smile
- Adjustable to fit the individual patient
Challenges
- Lack of jawbone stimulation
- Restrict patient’s diet
- Daily removal for cleaning
- Require use of an adhesive
Removable Partial Dentures
A removable partial denture is commonly used for patients who may be missing some teeth, but still have some natural teeth. Similar to traditional dentures, removable partial dentures can lack stability and comfort. They often require dietary restrictions and can negatively impact the patient's ability to speak clearly. While the treatment is relatively affordable, it often lacks the appearance and function of the natural teeth. In addition, partial dentures fail to stimulate the jawbone.
Benefits
- Cost effective treatment
- Adjustable and can be modified
- Non-invasive, quick treatment procedure
Challenges
- Lack of comfort, stability, and function
- Removed daily to clean
- Require regular adjustments
- Often damaged or lost
Fixed Bridge
A dental bridge is arguably the most common solution behind dental implants for the replacement of a single missing tooth. One limitation of a fixed bridge is that it requires removal of enamel on the natural teeth in order to attach and secure the bridge. A bridge also fails to stimulate the jawbone which may result in bone resorption. It is common for a bridge to last about 5-10 years before they require replacement.
Benefits
- Affordable
- Cleaned with regular brushing and flossing
- Function like the natural teeth
- Procedure is completed within a few weeks
Challenges
- Require the removal of healthy tooth enamel for placement
- Decay and infection risk
- Challenging to effectively clean
- No stimulation of the jawbone
Resin-bonded or Maryland Bridge
The Maryland Bridge consists of a prosthetic tooth which contains metal wings on either side. The wings are secured to the adjacent teeth by an adhesive. The use of wings and the adhesive eliminates the need to remove enamel from the healthy teeth. This type of bridge is more natural in its appearance. It also functions like a removable denture but lacks stability and durability.
Benefits
- Healthy tooth structure is not removed
- Affordable
- Procedure is quick and non-invasive
Challenges
- Higher risk of failure
- Challenges with adhesive
- Difficult to clean
- Metal wings are not aesthetically pleasing
Patients with one or more missing teeth should contact the office to schedule a consultation with the dentist to discuss tooth-replacement treatment options for restoring your smile.