Know the Pros and Cons of Tooth Replacement Options
November 14, 2019
Have you lost a tooth? Many teeth? The experience happens more frequently than you might think. In fact, plenty of adults in and around Naperville, IL have missing teeth. Thankfully, dental technology has advanced far enough to offer several tooth replacement options, including dental implants. In fact, Premier Dental dentist Dr. Kaz Zymantas routinely helps people who have lost teeth learn about the pros and cons of various tooth replacement choices.
Dental Implants: Advantages and Disadvantages
Known as the gold standard for tooth replacement, dental implants are the only choice that is stable and lasting. They also stimulate the jaw bone, reducing bone loss risks associated with missing teeth. Not only do dental implants look like natural teeth, but they function and are cared for just like them, too.
What is the downside to having Dr. Zymantas place dental implants? The procedure requires two surgeries that take place about six months apart. Waiting so long can be challenging, and some patients may not be healthy enough to support dental implants and may need additional bone grafting first. Plus, dental implants can cost more than other tooth-replacement alternatives, although they definitely last decades longer than anything else.
Dental Bridges: Advantages and Disadvantages
Dental bridges do not require surgery and can also give a lifelike appearance to your smile. Yet they require the dentist to remove a good portion of the teeth that anchor the bridge in place. This makes dental bridges more invasive to healthy, natural teeth.
It is possible for a dentist to create both permanent and removable dental bridges depending upon the patient’s desires. However, both types of dental bridges cannot necessarily withstand the force that dental implants can. Also, dental bridges will need to be replaced several years down the road, as they are not permanent installations. Finally, dental bridges do not stimulate the jaw bone, so the bone under the dental bridge will continue to resorb and shrink.
Dentures: Advantages and Disadvantages
If you are missing all your teeth, you may think that traditional removable dentures are your only choice. While those types of dentures that use suction and adhesives to stay in place do still exist, other types of dentures are available and may be more suitable.
Dentures supported by dental implants provide more stability, whether or not they are removable. They also can increase patient comfort and confidence because they do not move around or fall out like removable dentures are prone to do. However, adding the cost of surgery to place dental implants does increase the overall denture price. Also, some people require bone grafting procedures prior to having implant-supported dentures placed.
Which tooth replacement option is best for you?
If you are near Naperville, IL, contact Premier Dental to set up a consultation and examination with Dr. Zymantas. Our office can be reached at (630) 355-3339.