I lost my front teeth in an accident and scheduled an appointment with a dentist that a coworker recommended because I’ve lived in Maryland for seven months and had not chosen a dentist yet. The dentist recommended implants and said he would not place anything else on my front teeth because other options would wear down the teeth beside the front ones. Before I see another dentist and get the same response, do I have options other than dental implants to replace my front teeth? – Thank you. David for Bowie, MD
David,
Thank you for your question. The dentist you saw is concerned about your long-term oral health. We will explain your options.
What Are Your Options for Replacing Missing Front Teeth?
Your options for replacing missing front teeth are a partial denture, a dental bridge, or dental implants.
Partial Denture
A partial denture has an acrylic base with replacement teeth embedded in it. Metal or acrylic clasps on each end of a partial denture would wrap around each tooth immediately to the right and left of your front teeth. Over time, the clasps of a partial denture put pressure on the supporting teeth and weaken them.
Dental Bridge
Your dentist’s concern is that a bridge requires shaving down the two teeth adjacent to your missing front teeth so that the bridge will fit over them. Your replacement teeth would be in the middle of the bridge.
Dental Implants
Two dental implants can replace your front teeth. Your dentist would implant them in your jawbone, without using your adjacent teeth for support. After your implant and jawbone fuse, your dentist exposes the implants and attaches an abutment (connector) to them. After a few more months of healing, your dentist would attach dental crowns that match the color of your surrounding teeth.
You can make appointments with two advanced cosmetic dentists with dental implant training to discover their recommendations. A cosmetic dentist will produce the longest lasting and most aesthetically pleasing results.
This post is sponsored by Sugar Land, Texas, cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas.