What Are My Options if I Have Missing Teeth?

Having missing teeth can be a huge problem for some people. Many people choose to ignore a missing tooth if it is located in the back and not very noticeable. But what happens if you are missing more than one tooth or you have a gap your teeth and it is very noticeable?

Your dentists in Markham are likely to suggest one of three options for replacing missing teeth.

  • Dentures
  • Dental Implants
  • Dental Bridges

Dentures for Missing Teeth

Dentures used to be the preferred method for teeth replacement, but they present some difficulties. They are removable, but that can mean they shift on you when you are speaking or eating. Even with their problems, they are still a good solution. Dentures are the most cost-effective solution. Not as many people are opting for dentures as more modern solutions have become available. However, if you are missing all your teeth, dentures are one of the best, cost-effective solutions available to you.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are often recommended by the dentists who practice cosmetic dentistry in Markham. Bridges are ideal if an individual has a gap between a couple of good teeth. Bridges are used to fill in the gap with a prosthetic tooth, or teeth. Crowns are placed on teeth remaining on either side of the gap and then a bridge suspends the false tooth, or teeth, between them. They have been used by dental professionals for many years to fill in gaps made by missing teeth. They are a very reliable replacement option. The primary drawback is that often the healthy teeth on either side of the gap must be drilled down so they fit the crowns used to support the bridge.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular choices to replace missing teeth, and for good reasons. The three primary reasons for choosing dental implants include:

  • Implants provide support for the jawbone and help keep it from deteriorating
  • Implants have no effect on adjacent teeth
  • Implants can last for many years

Dental implants are considered a very good solution for replacing missing teeth. A dental professional will place a titanium post into the jawbone surgically. It takes a couple of months for the healing to be complete. After the mouth has totally healed, a prosthetic tooth is placed on the post to fill in the gap. The most prohibitive factor for implants is the cost. However, since they last for such a long time, it becomes more cost effective over time.

Whenever it is possible, it’s best to replace missing teeth. This can prevent future problems with your bite and bone loss that can occur. Markham dentists can discuss your options with you and help you decide which is the best alternative for your situation. You’ll be given a full dental consultation where all your options are fully discussed. Once educated on the different solutions, you and your dentist can choose which option is most suitable.