Dentures are the tried-and-tested traditional method to replace partial and complete tooth loss.
Dentures, while a strong and trusted option to replace tooth loss, are not always suitable for all types of patients—especially those who suffer from sensitive gag reflexes or prefer a more fixed, stable option.
Dentures can replace teeth aesthetically, but they lack function and stability because they move around (relying on clasps, suction, or adhesives to stay in place), have reduced biting forces, and do nothing to support the underlying bone.
That said, they’re the most affordable option for patients on a budget, are easy to repair and add to and can restore aesthetics in shorter timeframes.
Dentures can move and don’t support bone; bridges restore function but rely on neighbouring teeth; implants are fixed, feel most natural, and help support the jawbone.
Dental bridges are a good option to replace a few missing teeth in a row if you can afford a bit more in your budget or are looking for a temporary solution before implants.
Dental bridges are a good middle-weight option to replace missing teeth aesthetically and restore function. They support a stronger biting force and are more stable than dental bridges, as they rely on the support of existing teeth and cement to stay in place. Implant bridges are better.
However, since they do not last forever or are not fixed permanently, patients may encounter problems with them in the future, requiring repair or replacement.
Dental bridges also require neighbouring teeth to be filed down and replaced with a dental crown, which means you’ll have to unnecessarily damage other teeth to replace what you’ve lost – and while they stop teeth from shifting out of place, they do not support the underlying bone either.
Dentures can be completed in weeks, bridges in about three weeks, and implants in about three months, with implants designed to last the longest.
Dental implants are the best option to replace a missing tooth for the long haul. There are several types available, ranging from replacing a single tooth to a full mouth. These include implant bridges and implant dentures for patients seeking a more stable, fixed solution to tooth loss.
While they’re the priciest option to replace tooth loss in the long term, they’ll end up being the most affordable. They offer the best aesthetics and are considered to be the most reliable and stable of all prosthetics, as they integrate into the jawbone like a natural tooth root would.
Patients won’t have to worry about them slipping out of place, causing discomfort or any problems with bite or speech. They also support the underlying bone, preventing bone loss, tooth loss and facial sagging, making them the only restoration to do so.
Implants help prevent bone loss, stopping teeth drifting, and restoring chewing, speech and confidence, with a free consultation and 0% finance from £70 per month highlighted.
Besides the feel-good factor of replacing missing teeth, which boosts your confidence and restores your self-esteem by not having to hide your smile anymore, there are other significant reasons to replace lost teeth.
For example, failing to replace missing teeth can harm the surrounding teeth, causing them to shift out of place or experience excessive wear and tear due to unevenly distributed biting forces.
Aside from this, when you lose a tooth, the gum and bone in that area are no longer stimulated, which causes the bone in the jaw to deplete and the gum to recede, making nearby teeth and tissue unstable, causing further tooth loss.
Further consequences can include a hollowed face and sagging cheeks.
