Losing a tooth impacts your smile, confidence, and overall oral health. Fortunately, your dentist offers several effective solutions for replacing missing teeth. In this post, we’ll explore three popular options: standard bridges, implant crowns, and implant-supported bridges.

To see which one best suits your smile, call us today at 651-413-3013 to schedule a consultation in our Wyoming, MN office. In the meantime, check out our overview of these treatments. 

How Do Teeth Replacements Work? 

A standard bridge consists of a false tooth (or teeth) anchored to adjacent natural teeth. The adjacent teeth are prepared by removing some enamel, and the bridge is cemented in place onto the teeth. A bridge can replace one tooth or several teeth in a row. 

An implant crown involves surgically placing a titanium implant into your jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root. Once healed, a custom-made crown is attached to the implant. An implant-supported bridge combines aspects of both standard bridges and implants. Instead of being anchored to natural teeth, your bridge is supported by two or more dental implants.

Benefits of Implant Solutions for Replacing Teeth

While all three options can effectively replace missing teeth, solutions using dental implants offer several advantages:

  • Bone Preservation – Implants stimulate your jawbone, preventing the bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing. If you are missing several teeth, this bone loss can cause a noticeable change in your facial structure over time, making you look older. Implants help keep your face looking fuller and younger. 
  • No Damage to Other Teeth – Unlike standard bridges, implant solutions won’t require your dentist to alter healthy neighboring teeth.
  • Improved Functionality – Implants function like natural teeth, allowing for better chewing and speaking.
  • Easier Maintenance – Implant crowns can be brushed and flossed just like natural teeth. In contrast, bridges require special cleaning techniques.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Tooth Replacement 

That said, implants won’t be for everyone. Your dentist will explain each option in detail and answer all your questions, so you can choose what’s best for your smile. There are several key factors to consider:

  • Oral Health – Sufficient bone density is crucial for implants. Patients with gum disease or significant bone loss may need treatment for those conditions before getting implants.
  • Budget – Initially, implant solutions are more expensive than standard bridges. However, their longevity can make them more cost-effective in the long run. 
  • Time – Implant procedures often require several months to give implants a chance to heal after placement.
  • Adjacent Tooth Health – If neighboring teeth need crowns anyway, a standard bridge might be a suitable option. If those teeth are healthy, using implants will keep you from having to modify them. 
  • Number of Missing Teeth – Implant-supported bridges are typically more cost-effective than individual implants when replacing multiple adjacent teeth.

Your needs are unique. During your consultation, your dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health, discuss your preferences and lifestyle, and help you choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.

Replacing missing teeth? Call Wyoming Dental at 651-413-3013 to schedule a consultation today.