The Tribune

By Dr Tamika Ferguson

Many patients often ask, “What can I do about these missing teeth?”

Well, there are several options that are available.

The easiest and least expensive would be to do nothing. Simply leave the space where the tooth/teeth were removed. But while this may be the least expensive option, it results in unappealing spaces between the teeth, makes chewing difficult and causes adjacent teeth to shift.

One of the most common ways of replacing a tooth/teeth is a bridge.

A bridge can be defined as the replacement of one or more teeth with a non-removable prosthesis. In other words, artificial teeth that are cemented in the mouth. The adjacent teeth, in front and behind, the empty space are prepared to provide support for the false tooth/teeth between them. Once the bridge is cemented in place, the teeth not only look real but most claim the teeth feel like their own. The time from the first visit to delivery of the bridge is approximately four weeks. A slight downfall to the procedure may be its cost but the results are rewarding.

Removable partial dentures are another alternative.

A removable partial denture is designed so it can be removed from the mouth by the patient for proper oral hygiene care. There are different types of removable partial dentures such as cobalt chrome, acrylic and valplast.

With a partial denture there is little to no natural tooth preparation and it is cost effective. For many denture patients it takes time to adjust to the feel, some initially have problems chewing and speaking with them. Although partials have a natural appearance, depending on the type, an unbecoming metal clasp can be seen when talking or smiling.

Another option is one many patients ask about, the ever popular implant.

The procedure involves replacing tooth roots with metal, screw-like posts. Once the bone accepts the implant, the abutment placed, a crown can be cemented over the abutment, replacing the missing tooth.

The advantages are implants provide a solid support for the new teeth and no tooth preparation of adjacent teeth is needed. However, the disadvantages are it requires minor surgery and as with any surgery there is a time allotment for healing; therefore the process can take several months. In addition, the cost exceeds that of a bridge and partial denture.

When deciding to replace missing teeth there are several factors that have to be considered: your finances, how quickly you want the space closed and the overall condition of your mouth. A thorough discussion with your dentist is needed to determine the best treatment plan for you.