Losing one or more teeth is a stressful situation for anyone to face, yet one that is likely to affect a large number of people at some point in their life. When that time comes, it is very useful to understand the replacement options available. If you would like to improve your knowledge of contemporary dental techniques, read on. This article will discuss three common tooth replacement options.

Implants

An implant consists of two pieces: a post and a crown. The post is a short section of metal that surgically inserted in the jaw, where it then functions as an anchor point for the crown, or false tooth. Implants are both strong and secure, and successfully mimic the appearance of a natural tooth. Not only that, but an implant can easily last for decades if taken care of properly.

One disadvantage of implants is that they tend to be a somewhat more expensive option, especially when replacing multiple teeth. Because they require dental surgery, the installation process is more involved, and can also put patients with compromised immune systems at risk of infection and other problems.

Fixed Bridges

A fixed bridge approaches the problem of missing teeth from a slightly different angle. Here the idea is that, where loss is only partial, the replacement is anchored on the teeth adjacent to the loss. If the loss is complete, the bridge may instead be installed on implants. In either case, the bridge is permanently bonded to its anchor points, resulting in a permanent fix.

Fixed bridges are advantageous in that they can easily pass for natural teeth, while offering a good degree of stability and durability at a fraction of the cost of implants. That said, installing fixed bridges can also be a somewhat involved process, as the neighboring teeth must be modified to function as anchor points. Fixed bridges can also be more difficult to clean, as food can become lodged underneath it.

Removable Partial Dentures

Removable partial dentures are the least expensive--and the least invasive--of these three options. They consist of a plastic base to which replacement teeth are attached, with a metal underwire for support. They also have some sort of clasp mechanism for attaching them to the neighboring natural teeth. Being fitted for partial dentures is quite simple compared to the processes for implants and fixed bridges.

It is also important to realize that removable partial dentures are not considered as permanent of a solution. That's because, as the shape of your mouth changes with time, the dentures will not fit as snugly. That said, a well fitted and well constructed pair of removable dentures should give you several years of use.

For more information about these solutions for missing teeth, talk to dental offices like Smile City.