Did you know that the average American adult aged 35 to 49 is missing seven teeth? This stat may come as a surprise, but in fact, many people live with tooth loss. There are many different reasons why you may be experiencing tooth loss. These include a genetic condition, gum disease, tooth decay, and injury. No matter what the reason is behind your tooth loss, it’s important to find a solution as a healthy set of teeth positively contributes to your overall health.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 92% of adults aged 20-64 suffer from tooth decay. That’s a huge number. A large number of people also experience tooth loss.
We are very fortunate that dental advancements have come so far and that there are so many treatment options available if you’re experiencing tooth loss. If you’re not sure which option would be the best one for you to pursue, it’s best to book a dental visit and have your dentist take a look at your mouth and see what they suggest. If cost is an issue, your dentist can most likely recommend some cost-effective options for tooth loss.
In our opinion, here are the six best alternative options for tooth loss.
Option #1: Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the best options to treat tooth loss. Dental implants are specially designed to replace teeth. During this surgical procedure, a replacement tooth root is inserted and fused with your jawbone. This is done through surgically mounting a titanium metal post into your jawbone.
One of the many benefits of dental implants is that they provide the same look and feel as natural teeth. If you’re worried about others knowing that you have a fake tooth, a dental implant is a great option because it’s very hard to tell that it’s not real. Another benefit is that dental implants last a very long time, so you don’t need to worry about having it replaced.
It’s also very easy to care for dental implants. Treat them just as you would treat a natural tooth. This means that all you need to do is brush and floss and you’re good to go!
Option #2: Fixed Dental Bridge
A fixed dental bridge is another great option for tooth loss, especially to bridge a gap that is caused by a missing tooth. It works by extending across the area and is made up of an artificial tooth that is fused between two crowns. It’s bonded in place using dental cement. Dental bridges may also be surgically placed if you don’t have healthy teeth to attach it to.
Dental bridges look and feel like regular teeth, so you don’t need to worry about them contrasting with your natural teeth.
Option #3: Resin-Retained Bridge
If you’re looking for a less invasive option compared to fixed dental bridges, resin-retained bridges are a great option to consider. This option is particularly effective if you have missing front teeth. Resin-retained bridges attach onto surrounding teeth on each side.
Although less durable than a fixed bridge, this option is much more cost-effective. It’s also minimally invasive and works to conserve tooth tissue.
Option #4: All-on-Four Implant Supported Dentures
With all-on-four supported dentures, a full-arch lower denture is supported with four implants. This dental option inserts two implants at the front of the arch. They use the space where your teeth used to be.
The other two implants are inserted on either side on a 45-degree angle. They tilt toward the rear of your mouth. The dentures then clip onto your dental implants.
Option #5: Removable Complete Dentures
Removable complete dentures are used to replace a large majority of your teeth or all of them. They work by resting on top of your gums. They are made from acrylic materials that are gum coloured which the artificial teeth are attached to.
If you’re looking for a non-invasive way to replace a large number of teeth, this is a great option for your tooth loss. Some other benefits of removable complete dentures include them being cost-effective, aesthetically pleasing and functional. This option is also removable, allowing you to remove it at nighttime.
Option #6: Removable Partial Denture
This is a great option if you have one or more missing teeth. A partial denture is usually made from an acrylic base strengthened with a chrome metal framework. It works by using metal clasps that connect to your teeth. These clasps are designed to hold the denture in place. Another option for a removable partial denture is to use other connectors that are more natural-looking. These are called precision attachments and provide a more natural look.
A huge benefit to this option is that the procedure is non-invasive and is usually completed fairly quickly. They are also an effective way to fill in the gaps around teeth.
