If you are missing one or more teeth, you are not alone. Researchers at the American College of Prosthodontists estimate that 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth. Whether you have lost one or multiple teeth from extensive decay, damage, or disease, dentists can restore your grin to its former glory. After installation, dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants can make smiling, eating, and speaking easier.

If you live in the Atlanta area, book a consultation with Dr. Abbey J. Lee of Smiles for Grant Park to discover which tooth replacement options are most suitable for you.

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a permanent appliance that bridges the gap between one or more missing teeth and consists of:

• Abutment teeth: Two anchoring teeth covered with a crown on either side of the gap
• False tooth (teeth): One or more teeth are used to fill the space of missing teeth

Pros

If you are considering acquiring a dental bridge to replace one or more teeth, consider these advantages:

• Nonsurgical: Because dental bridges do not require surgery, they are less invasive and require virtually zero downtime. However, there may be an adjustment period (typical for all dental restorations).
• Cost-effective: Depending on your insurance plan, your provider may cover a percentage of the fees required for dental bridges.

Cons

While there are multiple benefits of dental bridges, there are also a few negative consequences:

• Jawbone deterioration: Since dental bridges sit on top of the gum line and don’t act as a natural tooth root, bone atrophy will happen over time.
• Affects neighboring teeth: Inserting a dental bridge usually requires filing adjoining teeth to create space for the restoration and may cause sensitivity. 
• Short lifespan: Typically, dental bridges must be replaced every 5 to 10 years.

Dentures (Partial and Full)

Did you know that 41 million Americans wore dentures in 2020? Dentures are a removable restoration supported by a flesh-covered base. While there are many types of dentures, the most common are:

• Partial: Recommended when a few teeth are missing
• Full: Recommended when most teeth are missing

Pros

Here are a few positive attributes of dentures:

• More affordable than dental implants: Generally, most insurance companies consider dentures a major procedure and cover half the cost.
• Efficient: Generally, dentures can be quickly created, and no surgery is needed.

Cons

Nevertheless, dentures are not a perfect tooth-replacement solution and come with the following issues:

• Low bite force: Dentures only provide ⅕ to ¼ of the bite strength of natural teeth.
• Wear and tear: Eventually, dentures must be relined or replaced. Also, ill-fitting dentures can feel uncomfortable for the wearer.

Dental Implant-Supported Restorations

Dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw to support prosthetic teeth.

Pros of Dental Implants

Oral health professionals regard dental implants to be the gold standard for tooth replacement because they are the closest to natural teeth:

• Prevents bone loss: Dental implants act as a natural tooth root and stimulate the jawbone. 
• Long-lasting: The implant itself is meant to last for a lifetime, but the majority of crowns must be replaced every 15 to 20 years.
• Easy care: After healing, dental implants can be taken care of much like natural teeth.

Cons of Dental Implants

Despite the positives of dental implants, there are some negative aspects to this treatment:

• Long timeline: Dental implants require multiple trips to the dentist for surgeries and procedures, which may equate to a four to six-month-long journey.
• More expensive up-front cost: Though every case is unique, dental implants can cost thousands of dollars. However, dental implants do not need to be replaced as often as other restorations, so the savings may increase over time.

Learn More About Dental Bridges, Dentures, and Dental Implants

If you are unsatisfied with the way your smile looks, the good news is that you have the opportunity to optimize it. Don’t hesitate. Schedule a consultation for dental bridges, dentures, or dental implants with Dr. Abbey J. Lee by calling 404-328-7177 or messaging us online right now.