Solutions for Missing Teeth

Dental Implants, Dentures or Bridges

When you have a missing tooth it is best to replace it. A missing tooth can change the shape of your face, affect your speech, make biting and chewing more difficult, and lead to movement of your remaining teeth, which can result in a host of issues.

Your choices are a bridge, dentures or dental implants.

Dr Granger believes “...implants in teeth are the best restorative option for missing teeth. This is better than a denture, partial denture or any other dental bridging because it stays in and the jaw bone is prevented from shrinking by the implant. No glue is needed, and you can chew with confidence."

But dental implants may not be for everyone. Budget constraints, bone loss, general health all play a factor in the best choice for you.

Dentures

Let’s talk a little about dentures as a solution. Dentures are prosthetic teeth fitted for your mouth regardless of how much bone is present. They are removable and can be a complete set for the upper or lower jaws. They can be partial to replace a few missing teeth. Or, they can be a retainer-like device that contains just one tooth.

Dentures are made to look like natural teeth and gums, and are held in place with a special type of adhesive that bonds them to your gums. They are not as expensive, have a limited life, require daily maintenance and because your bite changes over time, they will need to be refitted from time to time.

Dental Bridges

A bridge is a false tooth or teeth that attach to surrounding teeth for support. Dental bridges are an option when there is bone loss or other complications. They are more affordable than implants and take less time to be installed. Their life expectancy is seven to ten years, even less with root canals.

Conventional bridges like dentures are not fixed to the bone, and can be unstable. But they are solid choices for people with bone loss, budget constraints or health issues.

Dental Implants

A dental implant replaces both the root and crown of a tooth. The root is made of titanium and the crown is made of porcelain. Titanium is used in other bone related surgeries and is proven to be accepted well by the body.

Implants act more like normal teeth and with a stronger biting force. Since implants replace the missing tooth in a similar manner as a normal tooth your jaw bone maintains its integrity.

Another benefit is dental implants, unlike bridges, reduce the stress on neighboring teeth because they are not being used for support.

Maintenance of dental implants is easier than dentures or bridges which means you won’t have to visit the dentist as often.

And dental implants will last decades, if not a lifetime. Yes, dental implants are more expensive than bridges or dentures but we believe their natural look, comfort, low maintenance and long life make dental implants a solid value.

We encourage you to arrange a no-cost consultation with Dr. Kevin Granger to learn more about what might be the best solution for your missing teeth. Give us a call at 301-249-3333 or contact us.