Explore the best alternatives to dental implants. Learn about bridges, dentures, and other options for restoring your smile and improving your oral health.
Dental Bridge Options
Dental bridges use crowns and false teeth to connect the space between lost teeth. They're durable and functional, with a natural look that resembles natural teeth.
Installing them requires an invasive procedure that alters existing healthy teeth. They're also not ideal for replacing multiple missing teeth.
There are several dental bridge options depending on your situation and dental health.
Traditional Bridges
Traditional bridges replace one or more teeth. They're one of the most common implant alternatives a dentist in Niles, IL, would recommend.
They anchor crowns using a false tooth, known as a pontic, that goes in between.
Traditional bridges are durable and long-lasting. The dentist will have to reshape healthy teeth to provide enough support.
Cantilever Bridges
Cantilever bridges are almost the same as traditional options. The difference is that they're only supported on one side.
This means less alteration to existing teeth. It also means they're less durable.
Resin-Bonded or Maryland Bridges
These bridges use metal or porcelain wings attached to adjacent teeth.
They're a less invasive option with minimal prep work and a faster time to completion. It preserves tooth structure and protects natural teeth.
Maryland bridges are ideal for replacing front teeth. They're not as durable as other options, so they're not recommended on back teeth or under strong bight force. They're also not the most aesthetically pleasing because the wings may be easily visible.
Dentures
According to the Oral Health Foundation, over 19% of the world's population wears some form of dentures. They're a less invasive and more affordable option for replacing teeth than implants. Today's dentures are more natural-looking than ever and can improve facial contour.
They're not a perfect solution because they're not secured in place. This can make them uncomfortable during speech or eating.
Patients can choose from several denture options, both permanent and temporary.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are a cost-effective option for dealing with the loss of multiple teeth at one time.
Full dentures are affordable but require a time investment. They require more maintenance than other options.
Partial Dentures
Partial denture solutions can replace several missing teeth. They don't cover an entire arch but can cover a wide area.
There are many removable dentures that involve more than cosmetics and comfort. They're also more cost-effective. However, their impermanent nature makes them less durable than permanent solutions like implants or full dentures.
Dental Flippers
These acrylic prosthetics can replace a single tooth, primarily the front teeth.
They're not meant to be a permanent solution. They're an affordable, quick fix that's easy to make and place. They sit and replace the space left behind by missing teeth until a permanent solution can be found.
Mini Dental Implants
The process of installing mini dental implants is easier and less invasive than traditional ones. They may be the only option for patients who can't get full implants due to oral health issues such as low jaw bone density.
They're not as durable and can become less stable over time. They may also not provide as much bite force.
Root Canal
Extraction and replacement aren't always necessary for decayed teeth. Getting to the root of the problem before it gets worse can prevent invasive procedures.
Root canals can remove the damaged material inside the tooth's root, known as the pulp. Instead of an implant, the dentist will put a crown over it to ensure the decay doesn't come back.
It's a less invasive procedure that lets you retain your natural tooth. It's also more affordable than implant procedures. Teeth treated with a root canal do require maintenance and may need retreatment.
Gum Disease Treatment
According to the NIDCR or National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, at least 47% of adults over 30 and 70% of those over 65 have gum disease, also known as gingivitis. For at least 9%, it turns into a more severe infection known as periodontitis.
Gum disease treatment is an implant alternative that gets to the root of the problem instead of removing and replacing the tooth. It can work if performed before significant tooth loss occurs.
These periodontal treatments may include:
- Deep cleaning
- Antibiotics
- Laser therapy
Choosing the Right Option
Go to a dental specialist in Niles, IL, to get a sense of your dental health. They can help determine if starting a gum disease treatment or root canal is possible to save your natural teeth. They can also narrow down your options by telling you which procedures you wouldn't be a candidate for.
Stability and function are the primary concerns, but aesthetics and comfort are also important. Find an option that fits well and is easy for you to get used to. The better it blends in with your natural teeth, the better.
Think about the cost-effectiveness of the treatment. Implants require a larger upfront investment but last longer.
Find a Dentist in Niles, IL
Although they're one of the most popular and effective options for replacing teeth, there are several alternatives to dental implants. The best include bridges, dentures, and mini implants. Root canals and gum disease treatment are preemptive measures. Choosing the right one involves looking at your budget and preferences and getting advice from your dentist.
The team at Dental Specialists of Niles is dedicated to holistic dentistry. We realize how your oral health affects your entire health.
Our expert staff provides the highest standard of care to each and every patient. We use the latest technology to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums for a lifetime. Schedule an appointment today.
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