If you are considering implants, bridges or dentures to replace missing teeth, you’ll want to understand the benefits and downsides of each.
About dental implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution that replace the roots of your teeth. The implants naturally fuse with your jawbone, preventing any further bone deterioration. Implants look and function just like natural teeth.
Dental implant benefits
- Look and feel like real teeth
- Permanent and don’t need to be removed to be cleaned
- Retain ability to fully chew and taste food
- Prevent deterioration of jawbone and keep teeth
Dental implant cons
- May not be covered by insurance
- Surgery is required
When to consider a bridge
Another option to replace one or more missing teeth is the use of a bridge. Bridges are less expensive than implants and do not require surgery. Bridges function similarly to normal teeth and are held in place by other healthy teeth.
For one or two missing teeth, a bridge is a great option. However, bridges are not a permanent option. They typically last only about 5 to 10 years and can damage or wear surrounding teeth which can also become uncomfortable over time.
Benefits of Bridges
- Cost less than implants
- Usually covered by insurance
- Don’t require surgery
Cons of Bridges
- Not a permanent solution and will need to be replaced
- Can damage healthy teeth around the missing tooth
- Won’t prevent your jawbone from deteriorating further
- Can lose natural looking appearance over time
Dentures
For people who are missing many or all their teeth, dentures have been the standard solution for hundreds of years. There are a few options to choose from:
Implant-Secured Dentures
Implant secured dentures are the most structurally and visually appealing option. Four or six implants are surgically inserted into your jawbone, replacing the roots of your teeth. From there, your dentures snap into place, for a sturdy and stable chewing function that look and feel like real teeth.
Cosmetic Dentures
Dr. Frahm has completed special training to design and deliver cosmetic dentures. Cosmetic dentures offer many patients a superior look and fit. For your cosmetic dentures, Dr. Frahm measures your face and mouth using a precision process. When designing your dentures, she accounts for your skin tone, eye color, and facial bone structure. Your dentures are made to fit to the sides of your jaw bones, rather than just sit on top, providing improved function for many denture wearers.
Additionally, Dr. Frahm can design implant-secured cosmetic dentures and is quickly becoming known as a leading expert on the peninsula for this bespoke treatment.
Benefits of Cosmetic Dentures
- Fills out lower third of face
- Smooths wrinkles around the mouth
- Costs less than full implants
- Insurance often covers part of the cost
If you have tooth loss and are ready to restore your smile to its natural beauty, Contact Dr. Frahm for a consultation at 831-372-8011. Our office is conveniently located at 660 Camino Aguajito #201 in Monterey, CA 93940.
