Tooth Loss and Your Options for Replacing Teeth

Tooth loss is always upsetting, and you can rest assured that here at West Bowmanville Family Dental, we will always try very hard to save your natural teeth. Removing them is the last option! However, if you do lose teeth, then it’s crucial to think about how best to replace them. There are several different methods of tooth replacement including dental bridges using your existing natural teeth for support, full or partial dentures, or you may want to consider implant-supported teeth. Dental implants can hold single dental crowns, bridges and even full dentures, so treatment is very versatile!

Dental Bridges


A conventional dental bridge is supported by your natural teeth adjacent to the gap. Usually, it’s necessary to use one tooth either side for support and these teeth are ground down so they can be covered with dental crowns. The dental crowns are attached to the replacement teeth, creating a stable and robust restoration that is permanently fitted in the mouth. A dental bridge can be an excellent choice if the teeth adjacent to the gap could benefit from dental crowns, for example, if they have large fillings or are decayed or broken down. Otherwise, it’s important to realize that our dentist in Newcastle may need to remove healthy tooth structure to make room for the supporting dental crowns. Once in the mouth, your bridge should look natural and will feel comfortable.

Partial or Full Dentures


Partial or full dentures are removable dental appliances consisting of a pink, gum coloured acrylic base that rests on your gums and supports the replacement teeth. If you need a partial denture, it will generally have metal clasps fitted around your existing teeth to help hold it in position. Some people like the idea of dentures because they are affordable, and treatment is non-invasive. Modern dentures look very different from the false teeth you may remember your parents or grandparents wearing, and they are crafted to look very natural. However, dentures must be removed for cleaning and need to be left out overnight to give the gums a chance to recover. Over time, your gums and the bone underneath will change shape because the bone is gradually resorbing. This affects the fit of the denture which is why they need relining quite frequently.

Dental Implants


A dental implant is a small post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it soon heals and integrates with the bone. Once fused in place, the implant is strong enough to support a new implant crown, or when multiple implants are used, a bridge or denture. Dental implants are the most advanced way to replace missing teeth in Clarington and provide a significant health benefit. Unlike the previous two options, dental implants will help to protect your jawbone by acting as a replacement tooth root and delivering the stimulation needed to keep renewing old bone cells. Also, there is no need to adjust your natural teeth in any way for support because dental implants are self-supporting. Instead, they help to protect your natural teeth by sharing the load created when you bite or chew. When properly cared for, dental implants in Courtice can last years or even for life, and they will look and feel natural and comfortable.

It is likely that once choice will most appeal, but a consultation with our dentist will let you discover much more about each option. Once you learn more, you can make an informed choice about how best to replace your missing teeth.

Share this post

Share on facebook
Share on google
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on pinterest
Share on print
Share on email

READY FOR THE SMILE OF YOUR DREAMS?

Contact Our Team Today!