Dental Implant Alternatives to Restore Your Smile
Replacing missing teeth is essential for oral health and proper dental function. Dental implants are a natural looking and feeling option for replacing missing teeth and improving the smile. While dental implants are a popular choice for restoring missing teeth, they aren’t right for everyone.
At Brooklyn Heights Dental®, Dr. Eugene Stanislaus and Dr. Lisa Reid offer dental implant alternatives to meet the needs of patients in Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn, Fort Greene, and surrounding areas. To find out which treatment is right for you, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Why Consider Dental Implant Alternatives?
There are many reasons someone may need alternative options to dental implants when considering treatments to replace missing teeth.
Some people may not be healthy enough to undergo the minor surgery necessary for placing dental implants or they may not have sufficient jawbone around the missing tooth to support dental implants. Others may simply wish to avoid surgery as well as the recovery time and costs associated with dental implants.
Fortunately, there are several dental implant alternatives for replacing missing teeth that don’t require surgery and can restore missing teeth in as little as one or two dental appointments. The following are just a few of the most popular options.
Traditional Dental Bridge
For those missing one or two teeth, traditional dental bridges may be the best option. Traditional dental bridges consist of one, sometimes two, artificial teeth sandwiched between two dental crowns. These crowns are attached and bonded to the teeth next to the gap left by the missing tooth.
Traditional dental bridges are cemented in place, making them feel comfortable and natural, but because they are not removable, they can be difficult to clean.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures may be a good option for those who are missing many teeth but still have some healthy teeth remaining. Partial dentures consist of several artificial teeth attached to a plastic base that’s made to match the gums. This sits on a metal frame with metal fasteners on the end that attach to the teeth and are used to hold the partial denture in place.
Partial dentures are removable, making them easy to clean. However, because they’re removable, some people may find their restoration slips when eating certain foods.
Dentures
Those who are missing all of their upper or lower teeth and need an alternative to dental implants often benefit from dentures. Like partial dentures, dentures are made of artificial teeth attached to a plastic base made to look like the gums.
Although dentures can quickly replace a full set of teeth, they can take some getting used to. Even if dentures fit well and denture adhesive is used, there may be some foods that denture wearers will have difficulty eating.
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
The right treatment to restore missing teeth depends on the needs of each patient. If you are missing one or more teeth but need alternative treatment options to dental implants, our dentists can help. To discuss your treatment options, call (718) 857-6639 to schedule a consultation.