There are several options for the replacement of missing teeth, and the choice of treatment depends on factors such as the number of missing teeth, the patient's overall oral health, budget considerations, and personal preferences. Some common options for replacing missing teeth are:
1. Dental Bridges: A dental bridge is a prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. Bridges can be a fixed (permanent) or removable option.
2. Dentures: Dentures are removable appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can be full dentures (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial dentures (replacing some missing teeth while clasping onto remaining natural teeth). Dentures are typically made of acrylic or a combination of acrylic and metal.
3. Removable Partial Dentures: Removable partial dentures are a type of denture designed to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base, often with metal clasps that attach to natural teeth for stability.
4. Implant-Supported Dentures: Implant-supported dentures combine the stability of dental implants with the coverage of a denture. Implants are strategically placed in the jawbone, and the denture is attached to the implants, providing increased stability and preventing issues like slippage.
5. Removable Overdentures: Overdentures are complete or partial dentures that are supported by and attached to dental implants. They provide better stability and retention compared to traditional removable dentures.
The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the patient's oral health, bone density and volume, lifestyle, dental expectations and financial considerations.