Tooth Replacement Methods – The Pros And Cons

25 September 2017

Our Surbiton dentist looks at dentures, bridges and implants to replace missing teeth.

Although it can be devastating when we lose a tooth, especially in our younger years, there are now several options available to replace those which are missing.

Choosing which of these methods to use can be difficult and will depend on a number of factors, including finance and how far you are prepared to go with a more invasive treatment.

Whilst all of these methods offer a certain level of benefit, some provide better longer term solutions than others. Below, we look at the pros and cons of the three tooth replacement methods available at the Confidental Clinic in Surbiton.

Dentures

Pros:

• Modern dentures offer better aesthetics than older type ones and look natural.
• The fitting of dentures is usually a non invasive procedure and may be one that appeals to those who suffer from dental anxiety.

Cons:

• Some people find dentures to be uncomfortable and to move around in the mouth a little.
• There may be some restrictions on what foods you feel comfortable eating.
• Dentures can be fiddly and inconvenient to clean.

Bridges

Pros:

• Offers more security and stability than dentures, allowing people a wider choice of foods to eat.
• Natural looking and are made to match the natural colour of your teeth.

Cons:

• Adjacent natural teeth have to be prepared to accept the dental crowns that hold the bridge in place. Some patients may be reluctant to have this done to otherwise healthy teeth.
• They can’t be used to replace the very rear teeth due to lack of available teeth to attach the dental crowns to.
• Require special care to clean, especially underneath the bridge.

Dental implants

Pros:

• Long lasting, with good care. Twenty years plus use should be expected from healthy dental implants.
• Very strong with no restrictions on what you can eat.
• Easy to keep clean with regular brushing, flossing and dental visits.
• Both look and feel natural.

Cons:

• Not the cheapest method available, although one that we feel is very good value for money over the longer term (dental payment plans are available to assist).
• Longer invasive procedure needed which may not make it ideal for those with dental anxiety, although IV sedation is available.

As you can see, there are many reasons to choose, or not to choose, any of the above options and much will depend on the patient themselves. Our professional opinion is that, long term, dental implants offer the best solution, but we are always happy to discuss your options in an unbiased way, to provide you with the most appropriate tooth replacement method for your own personal circumstances.

If you have a missing tooth that needs to be replaced, please call the Confidental Clinic in Surbiton to arrange a consultation where we can discuss your needs, and put a treament plan into place. You can call our local dental team on 020 8399 1291.