Are you missing teeth, or have you noticed decay in your teeth and want to plan ahead? You’re probably wondering about your options for a replacement. If so, we’re here to help!
Our dental practice in St Albans specialises in replacing missing teeth and works closely with our patients to find an option that fits their budget, lifestyle, and smile goals. Keep reading to learn about the tooth replacement options available at St Peter’s Lodge.
1) Dentures
Dentures are artificial fixtures designed to resemble natural teeth and gums. They can be full or partial, meaning they can replace multiple teeth or all of your teeth. Typically made of acrylic, dentures are secured in place with denture adhesive. They are removable, so they are not a permanent part of your smile, but this also means they do not require any surgical procedures beforehand. The main benefits of dentures are that they are a cost-effective way to fill gaps in your smile, they provide support to your lips and cheeks after tooth loss, and they allow you to chew easily and enjoy the foods you love.
We can customise your dentures to fit snugly in your mouth, ensuring a natural look alongside your existing teeth.
When deciding between dentures or a different type of tooth replacement option, you should be aware that dentures require regular maintenance and replacement due to wear and changes in your mouth’s structure. Dentures cannot prevent jawbone deterioration after tooth loss, which can lead to changes in your mouth over time. Additionally, dentures are less reliable than other options and may come loose if not correctly fitted.
2) Dental Bridges
Dental bridges physically “bridge” the gap in your smile after losing teeth. They consist of false teeth, called pontics, which are attached to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the gap. We can customise your bridges with different materials for aesthetic purposes depending on the location of the gap. The main advantages of dental bridges include restoring a complete and attractive smile, preserving the proper alignment of your bite by preventing natural teeth from shifting into the empty space and reducing the risk of further tooth loss. Unlike dentures, bridges are permanent and provide a more reliable and convenient solution.
It’s important to note that dental bridges do not prevent jawbone loss and can increase the risk of tooth decay. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain a strict oral hygiene routine and schedule regular visits to the dentist to address these concerns.
3) Dental Implants
Dental implants are currently the leading option for replacing missing teeth. These fixtures become a permanent part of your mouth and can last a lifetime with proper care. Made from stunning porcelain crowns, they closely replicate natural teeth in both appearance and function. You can find more information about the dental implant process here.
Depending on your needs, we can use dental implants to replace single, multiple, or full arches of teeth.
One of the main advantages of dental implants is their ability to provide beautiful results and function just like natural teeth. With dental implants, you can eat all your favourite foods without any restrictions, as they are permanently fixed in place. Unlike other tooth replacements, dental implants can also prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
While implants may seem like an excellent alternative, and indeed they are, it’s important to carefully consider the cost and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. We recommend scheduling a consultation at our St. Albans dental clinic for a thorough evaluation to determine if dental implants are the right option for you.
4) Implant-Secured Dentures
Implant-secured dentures offer the stability and benefits of dental implants while providing a more affordable option for replacing full arches of teeth. By strategically placing implants in your mouth, the dentures can be securely locked in place without the need for denture adhesive. This provides reliable stability and prevents jawbone loss in the implant areas, preserving the natural structure of your smile. Additionally, implant-secured dentures typically have a longer lifespan compared to traditional dentures.
Implant-retained dentures are pricier than traditional dentures and require ongoing maintenance. Furthermore, some patients may not be suitable for this option due to the necessity of undergoing a surgical procedure.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there are several options available for our St Albans patients who are considering replacing their missing teeth.
Dental bridges and traditional dentures are great choices if you are looking for cost-effective alternatives to dental implants that do not require surgery.
Dental implants are the most effective way to replace missing teeth if you want a permanent solution that looks and functions like natural teeth.
Implant-secured dentures are a good compromise for those who want implants but need to replace multiple teeth and are looking for a more budget-friendly alternative.
If it’s time to start thinking about replacing your teeth after tooth loss, please schedule a consultation with our friendly team. During the appointment, we’ll examine your smile, take X-rays, and have a discussion with you about your smile goals and concerns. Afterwards, we will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan to help you achieve the healthy and beautiful smile you desire and deserve.
Contact us today:
Call Us: 01727 853160
Visit Us: St Peter’s Lodge Dental Practice, 48 Adelaide Street, St Albans, AL3 5BG
