The Top 3 Tooth Replacement Options to Consider

Is a missing tooth affecting your smile? You are not alone, a recent survey indicated that by ages 35-44, 69 percent of people had lost at least one tooth. The good news is that there are a variety of options available for patients when it comes to replacing their missing  teeth. There are three popular methods which include dental implants, bridges and dentures. 

Every patient is different and we suggest you consult with your dentist before choosing a tooth replacement option, however, let’s explore each of these options to determine which might be right for you. 

Full Dentures & Partial Dentures 

Dentures are the fastest method of tooth replacement and are ideal for those missing a full mouth, or multiple teeth. With dentures, everything can be replaced with just one appliance in your mouth. However the downside is that they are not permanent. 

Dentures are removable prostheses which means that they do come in and out of your mouth, they do not sit permanently within your gums. However, with dentures you can still eat and speak and it looks like you have fully replaced your natural teeth. 

You can have a full denture or a partial denture. Partial dentures have a clasp that sits on the teeth surrounding it for stability. A full denture is one larger appliance which fits along your gum line and can be supported in place with denture glue. Dentures are the most economical option when it comes to tooth replacement. 

Cost

Dentures are the most cost effective option for tooth replacement. A full set can cost anywhere from $500 to $3000 depending on the quality and level of realism desired. 

Longevity 

Most full and partial denture appliances last for 5 to 10 years before they need to be replaced. Often, patients will use dentures as a temporary form of tooth replacement while they wait to decide on which more permanent option they want. 

Pros

• The fastest way to replace missing teeth
• Cost effective 
• Restore basic chewing, eating and speaking abilities 
• No surgery needed

Cons 

• Non-permanent 
• Not as long lasting as other options 
• Require removal to clean & sleep 
• Do not protect against bone degradation in the jaw

Dental Bridges 

Another tooth replacement option is a fixed bridge. Bridges are great for those who have more than one tooth missing in a row. With dental bridges, there is a minor procedure involved. The teeth on either side of the space are prepped for a crown, while prosthesis are attached to the crowns which are fused permanently to your natural teeth. This creates a bridging effect, bridging the gap between your teeth with a prosthetic tooth and two crowns to keep it in place. A bridge is really just 3-4 crowns that are fused together. 

Bridges are much faster than dental implants and can be ready in a maximum of 2 weeks. Many patients that have bridges love them and do not have trouble biting, chewing or speaking, it feels like your natural tooth is there. 

Most of the time they are an excellent option. The only negative side to a bridge is that you have to prep the two teeth on either side of the space, it is more invasive than an implant where you do not have to disturb any of the surrounding natural teeth. 

Cost

The average cost of a classic bridge with one prosthetic tooth and two crowns costs between $3000 to $5000+ in most cases. The cost is directly related to the amount of teeth needed to fill the gap in your mouth. 

Longevity

Dental bridges normally last roughly 10 years, Some can last for 15 years with proper care. The biggest reason for needing replacement early is poor oral hygiene. Because the prosthetic tooth on the bridges sits on the gumline, food and debris can get stuck under it. It is very important that you visit your dentist for thorough cleanings in order to preserve the life of your dental bridges. 

Pros 

• Can replace one or several teeth
• Minimally invasive 
• Permanent solution 

Cons 

• Requires permanent changes to neighboring teeth 
• Not as long lasting as implants 
• Do not protect against bone degradation in the jaw 

Dental Implants 

A dental implant is the ideal option when it comes to replacing a missing tooth. This is because it is the closest thing to a natural tooth. 

It is a standalone complete prosthetic tooth, it does not affect any of the neighboring teeth in your mouth. It consists of a titanium screw that incorporates into the jaw bone and acts as the root of the tooth while a dental crown is screwed into place on top of the screw. It is the most long term, predictable and ideal option for replacing any missing teeth. 

A dental implant does take a longer time to perform. You have to place the implant which takes about three months to heal, and then you have your restoration put on. However, again, it is the best long term, reliable option as it is the only tooth replacement option that prevents jaw bone loss. 

Do Dental Implants Require Surgery? 

Yes, despite being the most permanent solution for tooth replacement, dental implants require a minimally invasive procedure in order to place them into your jaw bone. However, general anesthesia is most often not required. Patients can endure the procedure with localized anesthesia without discomfort. 

Cost

The cost of dental implants in Coquitlam, BC can range anywhere from $3000 to over $10,000 depending on the amount of teeth being replaced. In some cases, additional procedures such as jaw bone grafting may be needed in order to place your implant. This is an added cost factor that is often overlooked. 

Cost Breakdown at Glen Dental Centre in Coquitlam, BC

Here in our clinic, we know that every patient is different. That’s why  we’ve broken down our dental implant pricing to account for the many different treatment options available. 

• Single Implant - Starts at $3400 

• Several Teeth - Starts at $6000 

• Full Smile - Starts at $10,000 per jaw 

Longevity

Dental implants last the longest of all of their tooth replacement counterparts. Some patients may not need to replace them at all within their lifetimes. The average dental implant lasts for 15 to 20 years with proper care, cleaning and regular dental visits to ensure upkeep. 

Pros 

• Permanent 
• Closest thing to a real tooth
• Fills the gap in your smile
• Long Lasting 

Cons 

• Best for single tooth replacements 
• Can be costly 
• May require additional procedures 
• Requires oral surgery 

Visit Glen Dental Center for Tooth Replacement Options in Coquitlam 

At Glen Dental Centre in Coquitlam, BC we are committed to helping you rebuild your dream smile. Tooth loss happens and it is nothing to be ashamed of and you are certainly not alone. If you feel like your missing teeth affect your everyday life, it’s time to make a change. 

We would be happy to meet with you in a consultation to discuss your options when it comes to tooth replacement and determine which solution is right for you. Click the link or call (604) 552-2241 to connect with us.