Gentle Care Dentistry & Implants
General Dentist & Dental Implant Provider located in Sierra Vista, AZ
Dental Implant Alternatives in Sierra Vista, AZ
Restore Your Healthy Smile With Our Dentist in Sierra Vista
Know Your Tooth Replacement Options at Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants
When replacing missing teeth, patients may feel overwhelmed by their many restorative options. The most common teeth replacement options include dental implants, dentures, and dental bridges, which may be more cost-effective and less invasive. Each treatment has its pros and cons, and the best choice will depend on the patient’s needs, goals, and circumstances.
Our Sierra Vista, AZ, restorative dentist offers various tooth replacement options. Contact Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants today by calling (520) 458-9460 to learn more about your tooth replacement options.
Alternatives to Dental Implants
Dentures
Dentures are a traditional option for replacing missing teeth, consisting of a set of artificial teeth mounted on a removable acrylic base. Dentures are a good option for patients missing most or all of their teeth, as they can replace an entire arch. They’re also relatively inexpensive and made quickly.
However, dentures can be uncomfortable and may not fit well, causing irritation and soreness. They can also slip and move around on the gums, making it difficult to eat and speak.
Depending on the patient’s needs, there are multiple denture options available, including:
- Full dentures
- Partial dentures
- Implant-supported dentures
For patients considering dentures, it’s essential to explore gum disease treatments and supplemental procedures to ensure the gums are healthy enough to support them. These treatments play a pivotal role in preventing tooth loss and restoring oral health, which is crucial for the success of dentures.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a tooth replacement anchored in place by the teeth on either side of the gap. A bridge is typically made of porcelain or ceramic and is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth.
These dental restorations are good options for patients who are missing one or a few teeth and have healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Dental bridges are less expensive than dental implants, but they do require healthy teeth to be altered to support the bridge.
Is Doing Nothing an Option?
Doing nothing is technically an option when it comes to missing teeth, but it’s generally not recommended for several reasons:
- Missing teeth can cause several problems for the remaining teeth and the jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the gap, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Additionally, the jawbone can shrink and deteriorate if it’s not supporting a tooth, causing the face to appear sunken and aged.
- Lost teeth can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. This can lead to trouble eating certain foods and speaking clearly, affecting the quality of life.
- Missing teeth can harm self-esteem and social interactions. People may feel self-conscious about their appearance and avoid smiling or speaking in public.
In light of these issues, Dr. Hales recommends tooth replacement options such as dental implants to restore function and aesthetics and improve oral health. Scheduling a consultation with our Sierra Vista dentist will help you understand which option is best for your specific needs and circumstances.
Discover the Best Tooth Replacement for You at Gentle Care Dentistry and Implants
While dental implants are the gold standard for replacing teeth, we know they may not be right for everyone. Schedule a consultation with our Sierra Vista, AZ, dentist, Dr. Kent Hales, today to discuss your tooth replacement options. Call (520) 458-9460 to contact our dental implant office.
BEFORE AND AFTER GALLERY
