Your 3 Best Options For Replacing Missing Teeth

A missing tooth can be caused by gum disease, tooth decay, injury, or a genetic issue.

Regardless of the underlying cause of missing teeth, there are various procedures available if you want to replace a lost tooth or make changes to the overall appearance of your mouth.

Here are some choices for replacing lost teeth, as well as the pros and disadvantages of each option and pricing information.

1. Fixed dental bridge

If you are missing one or more teeth in the same region, a fixed dental bridge may be one of your best options.

A fixed bridge fills the space left by a missing tooth by employing a dental prosthetic or artificial tooth. The prosthetic is secured to neighboring teeth before being glued in place using dental cement.

The cost of a single bridge will vary depending on the materials utilized and your geographic location. According to some accounts, a single bridge might cost between $3,000 and $5,000. Some insurance companies may cover the surgery.

Advantages of dental bridges

Bridges are advantageous because they feel and appear like natural teeth. They may improve the appearance of your natural teeth on either side of the gap. They are also often cheaper than dental implants.

Disadvantages of dental bridges

Cleaning around the tooth beneath the bridge can be challenging. Bridges require the modification of existing teeth. A poorly fitting bridge may also gradually harm adjacent teeth over time.

Furthermore, plaque and germs may leak beneath the bridge, causing tooth damage or infection.

2. Dental implants

If you are ashamed to smile because of gaps between your teeth, you should find a cosmetic dentist. Among other options, they may advise you dental implants to replace one or more teeth in different parts of your mouth.

A titanium metal post or frame is surgically implanted into your upper or lower jaw. A replacement tooth is then attached to the implant, allowing the tooth to stay in place.

A dental implant is essentially a permanent foundation for a replacement tooth.

While costs vary depending on numerous factors, the typical cost of a single-tooth dental implant is between $3,000 and $6,000.

Advantages of dental implants

The main advantage is that the replacement tooth looks and feels like a real tooth and can survive for decades.

Another advantage of an implant is that it does not affect surrounding teeth (unlike a bridge), so the rest of your teeth should remain undamaged.

Disadvantages of dental implants

Because this is a medical procedure, you must be in good physical condition for surgery and recovery. Furthermore, the recovery process can take months.

Your dentist will not attach the replacement tooth until the dental implant has healed completely.

Dental implants are more expensive than other tooth replacement choices. Some insurance companies may cover the surgery, but you may be responsible for deductibles and co-pays.

3. Removable partial dentures

If you need to replace all your teeth, your dentist may recommend total dentures. However, if you only need to replace a few teeth, you may be a candidate for a removable partial denture.

This dental appliance consists of prosthetic teeth linked to a pink base that appears natural.

Although some dentures feature a clasp that attaches to natural teeth, your natural teeth stabilize and hold the removable plastic foundation in place.

The base is made to match the color of your gums, and the teeth to match the color of your real teeth. If you need to replace numerous teeth in one area of your mouth, these dentures may be a choice.

Some insurance companies may cover removable partial dentures. While prices vary by area, pricing calculators show costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,000.

Advantages of partial dentures

Removable partial dentures are cheaper and easier to repair and replace than other tooth replacement solutions, and they appear and feel natural in the mouth.

Disadvantages of partial dentures

Some people may find wearing partial dentures uncomfortable, at least at first. Dentures must be removed and cleaned daily, and they must also be removed before going to bed. Since they are often handled, they are more vulnerable to harm.