Teeth are supposed to last for a lifetime, but that’s not the case for many adults. 120 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. If you’ve lost a tooth or two over the years, you have several options to fill the gaps in your smile. Dental bridges and partial dentures have been used for generations to treat missing teeth, but which is right for you? Here’s what you need to know to invest in the best tooth replacement method for your needs.
Candidates for Dental Bridges
A fixed dental bridge is recommended for one or more lost teeth in a row. Although it’s possible to treat more than three consecutive missing teeth, longer restorations may have less stability and a higher failure rate. In addition, you must have healthy surrounding teeth to support the bridge.
Your dentist will make an impression of your mouth to recreate the portions of your lost teeth above the gum line using ceramic material. The bridge is held in place by bonding dental crowns to your adjacent teeth. You don’t have to worry about your bridge falling out or misplacing it, but your abutment teeth must be reshaped. Although this doesn’t harm your teeth, your enamel will not grow back if your crowns are removed.
A fixed bridge can last for 5 to 15 years before needing to be replaced. It’s an affordable, convenient method that can provide long-lasting results.
Candidates for Partial Dentures
A partial denture can treat consecutive and non-consecutive tooth loss. It works by filling the spaces of missing teeth using prosthetics that are attached to a gum-colored base. It has a metal framework, allowing it to clip or clasp on your remaining teeth to stay in place. Your natural teeth must be healthy to support a partial denture.
A partial denture is a great option for people who want a removable solution. It can also benefit patients with multiple missing teeth throughout one or more arches. On average, a partial denture can last for five or more years before needing to be replaced.
Consider Dental Implants
As an alternative to a bridge or partial, you may be a candidate for dental implants. A dental implant replaces both the tooth root and the crown, providing results that look and feel natural. Dental implants do not rely on the support of any other teeth. They have over a 95% success rate of lasting for 30 years or longer, so you’ll never have to budget for replacements.
Your dentist will review all your options to help you make the best choice for your smile. No matter the method, you can have a complete, beautiful smile to be proud of.
About Dr. Steven Rodriquez
Dr. Rodriguez achieved his dental degree at the University of Michigan and has been committed to continuing his education over the past few decades. He specializes in dental implants, endodontics, clear aligners, and more. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (810) 720-6433.