Tooth Replacement Options: Which One is Right for You?

One primary facet of restorative dentistry is replacing damaged or missing teeth. However, the options can be overwhelming for many patients. How do you know which teeth replacement option is right for you?

At BarskyDDS dental practice in South Miami, Dr. Todd B. Barsky offers several different solutions that can be customized to meet your individual needs and smile design.

Before choosing a teeth replacement option, it is helpful to fully understand your dental goals. During an initial consultation, Dr. Barsky can help you determine which treatment can effectively address your concerns. Whether you are missing a single tooth or an entire arch, we can help you restore your smile and achieve a beautiful, lifelike result.

Single Tooth Replacement Options

Missing a single tooth can significantly alter your smile. In addition to having an impact on your appearance, a missing tooth can negatively affect your overall health and function. Your teeth, gums, and jaw joints all work together harmoniously.

Therefore, if you lose a tooth, it is important to seek a replacement option right away.

A single missing tooth can be replaced with a:

1. Dental Bridge:

A single-unit restoration, a bridge is comprised of two dental crowns on either side, and an artificial tooth between them. The natural adjacent teeth serve as anchors, and must be slightly reduced in order for the bridge to have a proper fit.

Dental Bridge Illustration

2. Dental Implant:

Broadly considered the superior tooth replacement solution, a dental implant is a titanium post that replaces the root of your natural tooth. Because the implant stimulates the nerves in the jawbone, it helps prevent bone recession, a common occurrence following tooth loss.

Dental Implant and Crown

3. Removable Partial Denture:

The most affordable option, a partial denture is a removable prosthesis. While it will improve the aesthetics of your smile by filling in the space, it does not restore full function.

Multiple Teeth Replacement Options

Those who have suffered extensive damage or trauma may need to replace multiple teeth.

Patients who are missing several, or all, of their teeth can benefit from:

1. Dental Bridges:

Typically, one dental bridge can successfully replace one to three missing teeth. Patients with sporadic tooth loss can have multiple bridges placed to complete their smile. If you are missing several teeth in a row, you may be better suited for dental implants.

2. Dental Implants:

Just as dental implants can replace single teeth, they can also replace multiple teeth. Treatment will be entirely dependent on your situation, and can be completed with single implant-supported crowns, implant-supported bridges, or implant-supported dentures.

3. Dentures:

If you are missing all of your teeth on either arch, traditional dentures are an effective and affordable option. Crafted from an array of dental materials, dentures offer a beautiful result.

4. Implant-Supported Dentures:

If you desire more stability for your restoration, an implant-supported denture can offer an excellent solution. Like their traditional counterparts, implant-supported dentures provide full-arch replacement. However, rather than being supported by the gums and underlying jawbone, they are connected to dental implants for maximum stability.

5. All-on-4® Dental Implants:

This revolutionary method offers full-arch teeth replacement using only four implants. Because the implants are strategically positioned to maximize existing bone, the All-on-4® dental implants technique is an excellent option for patients who have lost bone density. Rather than a removable denture, a permanent prosthesis is attached for a stable and beautiful result.

The Importance of Oral Health

Before pursuing teeth replacement options, it is important to address any serious dental concerns first. Oral bacteria can lead to extensive tooth decay or periodontal disease. If these issues are present, they can compromise the success of your treatment. Dr. Barsky can assess your oral health and determine if any preparatory procedures need to be performed before you replace missing teeth.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Barsky Today

If you are missing teeth, schedule an appointment with Dr. Barsky to learn about your replacement options. You can contact us online or call our office at (786) 542-1071.