Although implantation is most often presented as the best method of filling dental cavities, it is always possible to propose alternative solutions that also have solid advantages. Considering that the lack of even one tooth has serious consequences, it is also worth learning about alternative solutions.
What can be fixed instead of a tooth implant?
Replacement of natural teeth is possible in several ways and even in case of complete toothlessness. Dental implants are not the only available method.
Dental bridges
A dental bridge is defined as a prosthetic filling in the place of one or more missing teeth, placed on adjacent teeth. Pillar teeth must be completely healthy and strong to withstand the loads associated with the bridge. The bridge itself can be treated as a fixed prosthesis. It is removed only when it is damaged. If fitted well, it will easily take over the function of lost teeth, and no food particles will accumulate under it.
Advantages of dental bridges
A porcelain bridge is a much cheaper filling than implants. This procedure is much faster because you can enjoy a beautiful bridge within a week of the start of treatment. You just need to properly prepare the teeth that later serve as pillars for the bridge. Such prosthetics cause practically no discomfort to the patient.
How are prosthetic bridges placed?
A key element of the whole procedure is the assessment of the condition of the pillar teeth. It is also necessary to take good X-rays, because not only the crown of the tooth must be in proper condition, but also the jawbone or mandible in which it is fixed. The pillar teeth will be properly reshaped. A digital scan of the teeth will allow you to match the bridge as much as possible.
Removable denture
A removable denture is a type of denture that is not permanently fixed. The simplest variant (but also associated with relatively high discomfort) is acrylic dentures. Partial dentures give more freedom, and overlays on roots or implants are also performed. Removable dentures can be removed daily. They allow you to quickly hide the lack of a tooth.
Advantages of dentures
Dentures, especially acrylic, but also partial, are cheaper than implants. Properly constructed and worn dentures does not increase the risk of additional diseases in the patient’s oral cavity. Dentures are also easy to fit, which is important mainly because they are recommended to be replaced after some time due to changes in the structure of the oral cavity and teeth.
How is a denture put on?
It is necessary to assess the health of teeth and gums, as well as to exclude degeneration in the temporomandibular joints. Impressions are taken from the patient, based on which the denture will be created. It is necessary to fit the dentures in the free space and adjacent teeth to avoid gum irritation or jawbone atrophy. Adaptation of dentures is performed very quickly, even the day after their insertion, to avoid negative changes in the oral cavity.
Veneers and crowns
It is not always necessary to replace a missing tooth. For some patients, veneers are sufficient in case of chipping, cracking, or deep discoloration. They can be described as an additional layer that replaces the tooth enamel, providing it with functionality and protecting it from potentially harmful factors. The same applies to crowns. These are attached similarly to veneers, but not on the one hand, but in such a way as to enclose the entire tooth.
Advantages of veneers
They are placed on the patient’s tooth, so it is the least invasive of the combined procedures. It is also cheap, and the effect that is obtained with good quality veneers is very aesthetic and does not impair the function of the teeth.
How are crowns and veneers fitted?
In the case of crowns fixed on the tooth and veneers, the process looks similar. After assessing the condition of the tooth, the dentist takes a scan of the teeth and designs the appropriate shape in a computer program, then sends the prepared shape to a technician who deals with the production of beautiful veneers. After receiving the finished veneer/crown from the technician, it is attached to the tooth with dental cement. Such a finish is very durable and resistant to external factors.
Implants or another technique? We will choose the perfect method for you!
Filling missing teeth is not only a way to guarantee the full function of the oral cavity, but also a way to protect the remaining teeth. And whether you decide on an implant or one of the alternative methods is up to you. Book an appointment, and you can be sure that dentists and prosthetists in our dental center will describe all the possibilities, and present the benefits and risks associated with them. You will make an informed decision, and every filing will be made per the highest world standards. You are only one phone call away from a full smile. Do it now, because the sooner you fill in the cavities, the faster you will regain comfort.
