Replacing Multiple Teeth
Edmonds, WA
 Gum disease, tooth decay, old age, and accidents are just some reasons why you may end up losing multiple missing teeth. Whatever the reason may be, you no longer have to feel conscious about the missing teeth for the rest of your life. There are multiple procedures that one can opt for to replace the missing teeth and restore your jaw's full-functionality.
Dr. Hasan Dbouk and his team at Edmonds Dental Studio can not only replace multiple missing teeth but also improve your smile’s aesthetics. We offer a number of restorative dentistry procedures, and each comes with its own set of pros and cons that we shall discuss below.
Multiple Tooth Implants
Whether you are missing a single tooth or are missing multiple teeth in different places in the mouth, dental implants are the most effective solution. An implant replaces the entire tooth structure, from the root to the crown.
The implant, a titanium screw, is surgically embedded in the jaw. The implant is allowed to fuse with the jawbone. The healing process can take up to six months or more. Once it heals, the dentist will place an abutment over the implant and allow the gum to heal and hold the abutment in place.
The last stage is to place a crown over it, replacing the missing tooth. If you have multiple missing teeth in different parts of the mouth, you will need multiple implants, and the process can even take over a year. It is a permanent solution that also proves cost-effective in the long run. It mimics the comfort, look, and function of the actual tooth and is just as easy to maintain.
Bridges – Implant and Tooth Supported
If you have multiple missing teeth in a row, implant-supported bridges are an ideal option. Here the dentist uses a bridge secured over one implant to replace the missing teeth as placing multiple implants side by side can damage the jawbone’s integrity.
The implant-supported bridge is as structurally sound as natural teeth. One implant can support up to two teeth, and two implants are ideal for replacing three to four teeth, and three implants can hold up to five teeth.
Implants and implant-supported bridges are ideal as they prevent bone loss, preserving the jaw's overall structural integrity. They offer a permanent solution to replacing missing teeth and are easy to maintain and cost-effective as well.
You can also opt for tooth-supported bridges, where the bridge rests on the adjacent teeth. It is ideal for those looking for a quick and cheap solution. However, it is not as durable as an implant-supported bridge and also damages the surrounding teeth as they need to be ground down to make space for the additional crown.
Partial Dentures
You can also opt for removable partial dentures if you do not want to undergo an invasive dental treatment. Dentures consist of a pink base that looks like the gums attached to the artificial replacement teeth. Your natural teeth and the gum hold the attachment securely in place. The user can easily remove the dentures when they don’t need to use their teeth.
Dentures are a cheaper, more flexible option. They are also easier to repair and rebuild, making them a popular option. However, they are not as comfortable as implants and may cause speech problems. You will also have to follow a proper maintenance regime to stop them from deforming and prevent bad breath.
Experts at Edmonds Dental Studio can help you find the ideal solution for your missing teeth to protect your smile and your oral health. Contact us or visit us for a consultation today! |
