Replacing Missing Teeth
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Missing teeth can significantly impact your overall well-being, affecting not only your ability to chew and speak clearly but also your confidence. Studies show that you can lose up to 25% of the surrounding jawbone structure within the first year of losing a tooth. This can make placing dental implants, the gold standard for tooth replacement, more complex later on.
Dental implants mimic natural teeth, stimulating the jawbone and preventing further deterioration. They’re a fantastic investment in your long-term oral health and appearance.
Tooth Replacement Solutions at Elite Dental Tours
Fixed Bridge: A permanent solution that utilizes crowns attached to surrounding teeth to support an artificial tooth in the gap.
Flipper: A temporary, removable acrylic partial denture that fills the gap and improves aesthetics until a more permanent solution is chosen.
Metal Partial: A durable, removable partial denture with metal clasps that anchor to surrounding teeth to replace multiple missing teeth.
Dentures: Full or partial dentures replace all or a group of missing teeth, offering a removable solution for multiple missing teeth.
Replacing Missing Teeth: Procedure Steps
Replacing missing teeth involves a series of well-planned steps to ensure long-lasting, natural-looking results. Here’s a general overview of what patients can expect during the tooth replacement procedure:
- Consultation & Diagnosis
The process begins with a comprehensive dental examination, including X-rays and sometimes 3D scans. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health, bone density, and missing tooth location to recommend the best replacement option.
- Treatment Planning
Based on your needs, the dentist will create a customised treatment plan. This includes deciding between a dental implant, bridge, partial denture, or full denture, along with timelines and costs.
- Tooth Preparation (if needed)
For options like a fixed bridge, the adjacent teeth may be reshaped to serve as anchors. In the case of implants, the jawbone is assessed and prepped, sometimes requiring bone grafting.
- Placement of the Restoration
- Implants: A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone. Healing time (osseointegration) is typically 3–6 months before the crown is added.
- Bridges or Dentures: Impressions are taken to fabricate a custom restoration. Temporary restorations may be used during this period.
- Final Fitting and Adjustment
Once healing or lab fabrication is complete, your final bridge, denture, or implant crown is placed. The dentist ensures proper fit, bite alignment, and comfort.
- Follow-Up and Maintenance
You’ll be advised on care routines and scheduled for follow-ups to check healing and ensure the restoration is performing as expected.
