Alternatives to Dental Implants
Dental implants are a fairly new solution to the problem of missing teeth. Although they are a permanent solution, they may not be right for every case. Implants tend to be costly, and require lots of time in the dental office. Other methods and choices are available for patients who do not find implants as the optimal plan of treatment.
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Implants
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According to Softdental.com, implants are made from titanium and attach to the jawbone to anchor a fake but permanent tooth. Implants can be used in the replacement of only one tooth, or several teeth. The cost of a single implant is $2000 or more. Even though implants may seem like a good choice, there are certain health and behavioral requirements that must be met first. The following are necessities for having dental implants: being in good health, having healthy gums and sufficient bone in the jaw, and visiting the dentist on a regular basis. Risk factors that prevent patients from receiving implants include a chronic illness or gum disease, and smoking.
Partial dentures
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Partial dentures are an alternative option to dental implants if you have remaining natural teeth, according to Softdental.com. Partial dentures are made of a plastic base that attaches to the artificial teeth and metal clasps that are fastened to natural teeth according to Docshop.com. Partial dentures offer flexibility due to the fact that if a natural tooth is lost, an artificial tooth can be added to the partial denture.
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Full dentures
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Dentures are an option for patients that have lost all, or most of their natural teeth. According to Docshop.com dentures are made of artificial teeth that are attached to a supporting piece. Traditional dentures are composed of a plastic, but ceramic porcelain dentures are now available. Dentures are completely removable so that they do not have to be worn to bed, and for easy cleaning purposes.
Bridges
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Softdental.com lists bridges as being a good alternative to dental implants if there are natural teeth located next to the affected or missing tooth. Bridges, as defined by Docshop.com are artificial teeth that are supported by crowns that are attached to the natural teeth on either side of a gap. Bridges are made of porcelain, and are made to match the surrounding teeth. Bridges are custom, ensuring a proper fit according to Docshop.com. A benefit of having a bridge is the prevention of natural teeth from moving while a gap is present between teeth.
Delaying treatment
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Softdental.com lists delaying treatments as another alternative to getting dental implants. Delaying treatments would allow the patient to weigh their options, but it may not be the optimal choice due to the circumstances and time sensitivity of the particular case.
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