You probably take your teeth for granted until you lose one or two. If you've got a gap in your smile and you can't find an affordable dentist, how do you tackle the issue and smile again?

We've written an article detailing the possible solutions for missing teeth. Read on to see how you can get back to life without missing teeth.

Let's get you started!

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great option to consider for someone with missing teeth. Implants are permanent and cost-effective. It makes them a great choice for long-term tooth replacement. Implants can be used to replace one or several teeth.

This fills spaces and maintains proper spacing between remaining teeth. The implant acts as a replacement tooth root. It anchors the prosthetic onto the jawbone and provides a secure fit.

One of the biggest advantages of dental implants is that they are permanent. They do not need to be removed regularly like dentures. Furthermore, due to their durability, they require less maintenance. This makes them an excellent long-term solution.

Finally, with advances in dental technology and the benefits that come with the cost of dental implants, implant procedures are now less complicated and less invasive than ever. For anyone missing teeth and looking for a permanent solution, dental implants are certainly worth considering.

2. Removable Partial Dentures

Removable Partial Dentures (RPDs) are a great option for those who have missing teeth. RPDs are false teeth that are attached to a plastic base surrounding a metal framework. The metal framework is designed to fit around surrounding teeth and hold the false teeth in place.

RPDs can be removed, but generally should be left in place during meals or when speaking. The advantages of RPDs include their natural appearance when in place and the fact that they are much less expensive than other permanent alternatives. They are also easy to clean and maintain.

Some of the drawbacks of removable partial dentures include the potential for dislodgement. This is especially when eating, which can be embarrassing and cause significant discomfort. Poor-fitting partial dentures may cause sore spots, friction, or an inability to wear them without feeling discomfort.

However, the replacement teeth can be crafted to match the patient’s smile to help them feel more confident. RPDs are considered a great option to help those with multiple missing teeth. This is for those whose mouths can't support bridges or implant dentures.

3. Fixed Dental Bridge

A fixed dental bridge is a possible solution to replacing missing teeth. This dental restoration is made from crowns and a false tooth in the middle of the two crowns. The false tooth is supported by the teeth on either side of the gap and held in place by the two crowns.

They can be made from porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of the two. The dental bridge can be fixed permanently in your mouth with the help of dental cement. To get a dental bridge, your dentist will first need to prepare the abutment teeth to reduce the size and make room for the new restoration.

Then an impression will be taken of the existing teeth and will be sent to a lab to have the bridge made and finalized. Fixed dental bridges are an effective and durable solution to replace a missing tooth. They provide patients with a permanent replacement that looks and functions just like a normal tooth.

4. Temporary Dentures

Temporary dentures offer an effective solution for people who are missing teeth. This form of tooth replacement is both convenient and economical. Temporary dentures can bridge the gap between traditional dentures and implants. 

It also offers some functionality when having permanent teeth replaced. These removable dentures may include a plastic plate with a resin base. It is held in place by silicone suction or adhesive.

Additionally, there are varieties of temporary dentures with or without metal components. These dentures have the advantage of being easier to maintain than traditional dentures. They can be removed for easy cleaning.

They provide users with an effective way to replace missing teeth in the interim. This is even if they may be more vulnerable to wear and tear than permanent dentures.

5. Permanent Dentures

Permanent dentures can be an effective and aesthetically pleasing solution for missing teeth. Typically, permanent dentures are made up of a frame that rests directly on the person's gum line. This is most commonly in the form of upper or lower dentures depending on the area where the teeth are missing.

The frame is created from either a hard acrylic or cast metal base and is molded to the exact shape of the gums and the face. It is made from an impression taken from the person's mouth. It can be adjusted to provide a comfortable and secure fit on the gums and around the cheeks.

The denture teeth, which are typically made from acrylic, are then placed on top of the frame and can be custom-colored to match the patient’s natural teeth. With proper care, permanent dentures can last for many years, ensuring a healthy and attractive smile.

How permanent dentures are implanted in the mouth can be painful and requires recovery time. As with any kind of dental prosthesis, proper dental hygiene and care are required to keep the mouth clean and healthy and avoid any further complications.

Learn Different Options to Replace Missing Teeth

Replacing missing teeth is an important decision and process. There are a variety of options that can help improve your oral health, self-confidence, and quality of life.

Consider discussing all available possibilities with your dentist and making the best decision for you. Make sure you take care of your teeth, and don't forget to schedule regular dental appointments to ensure a lifetime of smiles!

Contact your local dentist today to learn more about how you can replace missing teeth.

Should you wish to explore more articles aside from options for tooth replacement, visit our blog page.