Know Your Tooth Replacement Options

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, there are multiple options available to patients. The most common options include dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges. Each treatment has its pros and cons, and the best choice will depend on the patient’s needs, goals, and circumstances.

Our Everett, WA, dentist, Dr. William Webley, offers various tooth replacement options. Contact Just Smile Dental today by calling (425) 341-1111 to learn more about your tooth replacement options. 

Alternatives for Dental Implants

Dentures

Dentures are a traditional option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a set of artificial teeth mounted on a removable acrylic base that fits over the gums. Dentures are a good option for patients missing most or all of their teeth, as they can replace an entire arch. They’re also relatively inexpensive and made quickly. 

However, dentures can be uncomfortable and may not fit well, causing irritation and soreness. They can also slip and move around in the mouth, making it difficult to eat and speak.

Depending on the patient’s needs, there are multiple denture options available, including:

Replacing a missing tooth or teeth is crucial to maintaining the appearance and function similar to natural teeth, ensuring the health of your oral cavity and the integrity of the facial structure.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a tooth replacement option that involves placing a dental crown on the adjacent teeth to support the bridge, anchored in place by these teeth on either side of the gap. Unlike some dental implant procedures, bridges don’t require bone grafting or invasive surgery, making them a less complicated and more straightforward procedure. Typically made of porcelain or ceramic, dental bridges are custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth perfectly. 

They’re an excellent choice for patients who are missing one or a few teeth and have healthy teeth on either side of the gap to support the bridge. While dental bridges are generally less expensive than dental implants, it’s important to note that they do require the alteration of healthy teeth to accommodate the dental crown that attaches to the bridge.

Is Doing Nothing an Option?

Missing teeth can often be the result of conditions like gum disease and tooth decay. Doing nothing is technically an option when it comes to missing teeth, but it’s generally not recommended for several reasons:

  1. Missing teeth can cause several problems for the remaining teeth and the jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the gap, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Additionally, the jawbone can shrink and deteriorate if it’s not supporting a tooth, causing the face to appear sunken and aged.
  2. Lost teeth can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. This can lead to trouble eating certain foods and speaking clearly, affecting the quality of life.
  3. Missing teeth can harm self-esteem and social interactions. People may feel self-conscious about their appearance and avoid smiling or speaking in public.

In light of these issues, it’s recommended to consider tooth replacement options such as dental implants to restore function, and aesthetics, and improve overall oral health. 

Scheduling a consultation with our Everett dental professionals will help you understand which option is best for your specific needs and circumstances.

Dental Implants: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Dental implants are a modern solution for replacing missing teeth. They provide a safe, durable, and natural-looking alternative to bridges or dentures. An implant essentially acts as an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into the jawbone.

The implant itself is a small, screw-like post typically made from titanium. Once integrated with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, the implant forms a sturdy foundation. A custom-made artificial tooth crown is then secured to the implant, completing the tooth replacement.

One key benefit of dental implants is their permanence and stability. Because the implant fuses with the jawbone, it creates an incredibly strong base – making the replacement tooth functional and comfortable, just like a natural tooth. However, some patients may require additional procedures like bone grafting if their jawbone is too thin or soft to support an implant initially.

The dental implant process involves a series of steps and appointments with a dental implant specialist. But once complete, implants can restore your smile’s appearance and functionality for many years, making them an excellent long-term solution for missing teeth.

Discover the Best Tooth Replacement for You

While dental implants are the gold standard for replacing teeth, we know they may not be right for everyone. Schedule a consultation with our Everett dentist today to discuss your tooth replacement options by calling (425) 341-1111. We welcome patients in Edmonds, Marysville, Lynnwood, and Silver Firs, WA. We look forward to serving you!