Replacing a Missing Tooth: Which option is better for me?

When a tooth is damaged beyond repair or has a poor prognosis, the main treatment option is to extract, or remove the tooth. Dentists are responsible for explaining to their patients options for replacing this missing tooth and reasons why it should be replaced.

When a tooth is removed, there are four options that the patient has. The first option is to do nothing. While this is the most economical choice, it is not the best choice. After a tooth is removed, the teeth on either side will start to collapse into that space. Also, the tooth in the opposite arch that once rested on that tooth will start to grow into that space. Over time the teeth will shift and the forces on the teeth will be distributed differently causing additional tooth loss and jaw pain, or TMJ. The other negative thing that happens after a tooth is lost is the bone that was surrounding that tooth will start to disappear. Over time, the bone loss will also affect the teeth on either side of the missing tooth and could add to additional tooth loss. It can be emotionally devastating and embarrassing to a person to have a missing tooth that can be seen when they speak or smile. Many people stop smiling to avoid having someone look or stare at them because of the space.

The second option to replace a missing a tooth is to have a removable partial denture. This is a removable appliance that will hook onto the teeth and the patient will take it out at night. This is an economical choice but it is also hard to get used to. A partial is similar to a 3 legged stool; it will rock in the patient’s mouth while the person is eating and speaking. Partials also need to be replaced at least every 7 years. This option also does not address the bone loss that occurs once a tooth is removed. This appliance can, over time, loosen the teeth that it is attached to and contribute to additional tooth loss.

The third option to replace a missing tooth is a bridge. A bridge can be fabricated out of multiple materials, including gold, porcelain, and high noble metals. A bridge is where the dentist crowns the teeth on either side of the missing tooth and connects the teeth together with multiple crowns. This option is good because it is esthetic, quick, and is the “old standard” to replacing a missing tooth. The downfalls to this option are that it doesn’t do anything to counteract the bone loss and you have to remove tooth structure on the adjacent teeth for crowns to be fabricated. Bridges typically last 8-10 years.

The forth, and final option is a dental implant. A dental implant is a man made tooth that replaces the missing tooth. It is three different parts that are placed at different appointments. The first part is the implant body, which acts as the root of your tooth. The second part is the abutment, which is like the tooth portion that is above your gums. The third part is the implant crown, this fits over the abutment very similar to how a crown caps a tooth. This option is the best option. This option tricks the bone into thinking there is a tooth present, and therefore, the bone doesn’t disappear. It also doesn’t require unnecessary tooth destruction to the adjacent teeth to fit new crowns. It is the most esthetic and feels the most natural in a person’s mouth. Implants last longer than any of the other options, at 15 years. The downfall to an implant is that it requires multiple appointments and most dental insurance plans do not cover dental implants.

Over the past decade, implants have fast become the leading option patients and dentists choose to replace a missing tooth. Talk with your dentist today about what option is best for you and your lifestyle. Restore the confidence in your smile and invest in your dental health.