If you’re missing one or more teeth in Ocoee, Florida, you may be wondering what your options are for replacing your teeth. Missing teeth can make you feel less confident, stop you from eating your favorite foods, and even cause further oral health issues.
But what choices do you have, and which type of tooth replacement may be right for you? In this blog, the team at Colonial Drive Family Dentistry will get into all the details. Read on and learn everything you need to know.
Replacing Missing Teeth With Dental Implants
Dental implants are usually considered to be the “gold standard” for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a small metal implant and a restoration, such as a dental crown. The metal implant is a screw-shaped piece of titanium, which jis surgically implanted into your gums and jaw.
Over time, this implant heals and bonds with your jaw bone, becoming a permanent part of your mouth and functioning as an artificial tooth root. Then, false teeth can be attached to one or more implants. These are called “implant restorations.”
Single-tooth implant restorations use one dental crown, and are the most common. However, multiple implants can be used to support a dental bridge, or even a full mouth of implant-supported dentures.
Dental implants can easily last 30+ years with proper care, and they help protect your oral health and are very convenient. However, they are quite expensive compared to alternative treatments, and it could take 6-12 months to get your implants.
Replacing Missing Teeth With Dentures
Dentures are another option for replacing missing teeth. There are two primary types of dentures available:
- Partial dentures – Partial dentures replace one or several missing teeth. They use a framework that attaches to your healthy teeth, snapping multiple false teeth into place. They're a good option if most of your teeth are still in good condition.
- Full dentures – Full dentures fit directly over your gums, so they require the removal of any remaining teeth, even if they're healthy. They consist of a full set of false teeth, which are placed into a gum-colored acrylic base.
Dentures are affordable and are usually covered by dental insurance up to applicable limits. However, they do not last as long as other types of tooth restorations like dental implants and bridges. They also require more special care to keep them in good condition.
Replacing Dental Implants With Dental Bridges
A dental bridge consists of two crowns, which attach to two healthy teeth on either side of a gap in your smile. Between these crowns, one or more false teeth (pontics) are suspended, “bridging” the gap and restoring your smile.
Dental bridges can be used to restore a single tooth, or a row of 2-3 missing teeth. They are more expensive than dentures, but last longer and don’t have to be removed from your mouth. They are usually cheaper than dental implants, but don’t last quite as long, and may require a little bit more special care when you brush and floss around the bridge.
Which One Is Best For Me? Find Out At Colonial Drive Family Dentistry!
With so many options out there, how do you know which one to choose? The best way is to consult with an expert restorative dentist in Ocoee, such as Dr. Dorsey at Colonial Drive Family Dentistry. With his help, you can explore all of your options for replacing your missing teeth and smile proudly once again. Contact us online or give us a call at (407) 295-6993 to schedule your appointment today.
.png)