4 Options for Tooth Replacement Your Periodontist May Consider
There are four common options for tooth replacement that a periodontist may consider: Dental implants, All-on-X (Teeth-in-a-Day), dentures, and fixed bridges. Each solution will serve a specific purpose, and the best option for each patient will vary.
Source: Pexels, Photo by Cottonbro Studio
“Dentures are often more affordable than permanent solutions but lack the comfort, stability, and durability of other options for tooth replacement, like dental implants.”
Dental Implants
Dental implants are permanent tooth replacements that can quickly restore your smile. In this procedure, a titanium or zirconium screw is surgically installed in the jaw through the gums. These metals are safe for human use and are strong enough to support dental work.
Replacement teeth or crowns (custom artificial teeth) are anchored on top of the screw via an abutment. This is an effective solution when only a single tooth needs to be replaced. Types of dental implants include single-tooth implants, implant-supported bridges, and implant-supported dentures.
Pros of Dental Implants
Dental implants are often the preferred choice for periodontal patients who want long-term solutions and improved quality of life. Pros of dental implants include:
Comfortable and stable
Better chewing
Never slip or fall out
Help preserve oral health
Easy to keep clean
Durable and permanent
Never decays
Convenient (no denture trays)
Looks just like natural teeth
Cons of Dental Implants
While full tooth replacement is a comprehensive solution, it may not be for everyone. Cons of dental implants include:
Surgical procedure
Lengthy recovery time
Risk of infection
Can be more costly
Who Is A Good Fit For Dental Implants?
Anyone in need of single tooth replacement who is in generally good health with a strong jawbone may be a good candidate for dental implants. Gum health is also an important aspect of dental surgery.
Some candidates who may not be a good fit are those with diabetes, leukemia, or those who regularly use tobacco. These patients could have difficulty healing or be at greater risk of infection.
All-On-X or Teeth-In-A-Day
All-On-X dental implants or new Teeth-In-A-Day are a popular option for replacing teeth. This solution offers a permanent, screw-retained, same-day replacement for either one or both sets of teeth (upper and lower). This system can replace all your teeth with a single solution.
All-On-X is installed on four implants, similar to standard implants, but with crowns to replace all of your teeth at once. Installing the four implants requires only a single surgical procedure, making recovery faster than individual operations.
Pros of All-On-X
Smile In A Day in Cedar Park is a full-mouth tooth replacement for those who need a whole new smile. Pros if All-On-X include:
Faster than 1x implants
More comfortable than dentures
Best for significant decay or tooth loss
Looks and feels natural
May reduce the need for bone grafting
Permanent solution
Cons of All-On-X
Teeth In A Day in Cedar Park may not be a good fit for everyone. Cons of All-On-X include:
Lengthy surgical procedure
Potential extended recovery time
Four implants may increase the risk of infection
Can be more costly
Not suitable for everyone
Who Is A Good Fit For All-On-X?
Teeth In A Day implants may be a good fit for anyone who needs full smile reconstruction due to injury or decay. Those who already have dentures but want a more comfortable or permanent solution, and who retain sufficient jaw bone strength, oral health, and gum health.
Tobacco use, diabetes, and other autoimmune disorders may pose complications to the All-On-X system, and those patients may not be a good fit.
Other Options For Tooth Replacement
A periodontist may consider other options for tooth replacement, although they may not be as effective, comfortable, or permanent.
Dentures
Dentures are removable artificial teeth, available in full or partial sets. They immediately improve smile appearance and help restore functionality. Dentures are often more affordable than permanent solutions but lack the comfort, stability, and durability of other options for tooth replacement, like dental implants.
Fixed Bridges
Similar to dentures, fixed bridges are prosthetics that replace one or more teeth with artificial teeth. They’re attached to neighboring teeth and cemented into place to fill gaps and restore chewing or functionality. However, in order to be installed, neighboring teeth are irreversibly ground down, and fixed bridges can be difficult to clean.
What Is The Best Option For Tooth Replacement?
Overall, dental implants are the most effective and permanent option for single-tooth replacement. However, the best choice for you is the one that you choose together with your periodontist. Central Texas Periodontics can provide a comprehensive treatment plan to help you achieve a functional, confident smile that fits your needs. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.