Understanding Your Tooth Replacement Options

Tooth loss is more common than many people realize. According to the World Health Organization, an average of 7% of the global population has complete tooth loss, that is, before you consider the people who are missing just a few. It can happen for a variety of reasons, such as injury, decay, gum disease, or genetics. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to know that there are several effective ways to restore both the appearance and function of missing teeth. This guide explores the most widely used tooth replacement options, including their benefits, limitations, and considerations to help patients make informed decisions.

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Replacing a missing tooth isn’t just about aesthetics. Gaps in your smile can lead to:

• Bone loss in the jaw due to a lack of stimulation from a tooth root.
  
• Shifting of surrounding teeth, which can impact bite alignment.
  
• Difficulty chewing and speaking, especially with multiple missing teeth.
  
• Changes in facial appearance, such as sagging or hollow cheeks.
  
• Lower self-confidence, particularly in social or professional settings.

Options for Tooth Replacement

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are titanium artificial tooth roots placed into the jawbone. Once healed, a crown is attached, creating a natural-looking and functional replacement.

Advantages:

• Long-lasting and stable
  
• Does not rely on neighboring teeth
  
• Helps maintain bone density
  

Considerations:

• Requires oral surgery and healing time
  
• Higher upfront cost
  
• May not be suitable for patients with certain health conditions or insufficient bone

2. Dental Bridges

A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring an artificial tooth to the neighboring natural teeth or implants.

Advantages:

• Fixed (non-removable)
  
• Faster treatment compared to implants
  
• Less invasive than a full implant procedure
  

Considerations:

• Adjacent teeth may need to be reshaped
  
• Doesn’t address bone loss beneath the missing tooth
  
• Typically lasts 7–15 years before needing replacement

3. Partial and Full Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances that can replace several missing teeth (partial dentures) or all teeth in an arch (full dentures). They are custom-made for each patient.

Advantages:

• Relatively affordable
  
• Can be made for multiple missing teeth at once
  
• Non-invasive option
  

Considerations:

• May shift or feel less stable
  
• Requires regular adjustments
  
• Doesn’t prevent bone loss

4. Implant-Supported Dentures

These are a hybrid between traditional dentures and implants. A denture is anchored to the jaw with a few strategically placed implants, offering more stability.

Advantages:

• More secure fit than traditional dentures
  
• Helps preserve bone
  
• Still removable for cleaning
  

Considerations:

• More expensive than traditional dentures
  
• Surgical procedure required for implant placement

Which Option Is Right for You?

Choosing the right tooth replacement depends on oral health, bone density, budget, lifestyle, and cosmetic goals. At Barrhaven Dental Studio, we offer personalized consultations to assess your situation and explain all your options. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that restores your smile and improves your quality of life. Whether you’re missing one tooth or many, we’re here to help. 

Contact us today to book your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.