Affordable Tooth Replacement Options for Missing Teeth

Did you know that smiling is good for your health as well as your social life? It’s true!

When you smile, in addition to sending outward signals of confidence and sociability, you also trigger immune-boosting and mood-boosting hormones inside your body. Unfortunately, people with missing teeth are often unable to take advantage of these benefits because they stifle their smile behind closed lips or refuse to smile at all. And when missing teeth are not replaced, it also increases the risk of jawbone deterioration, gum disease, bite misalignment, and further tooth loss.

If you’re worried about the financial commitment of replacing your missing teeth, it’s important to remember that the longer you put off replacing them, the more costly the resulting damage will be. Fortunately, there are several affordable tooth replacement options that won’t break the bank. Here are a few to consider:

Single implant
If you’re missing a single tooth, a dental implant is the best option for durability, security, and a natural feel and function. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that replaces the entire tooth, from root to crown. A titanium post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, and a natural-looking prosthetic tooth is secured to the post with an abutment. Although dental implants typically cost more up-front than other tooth replacement options, they also last longer, which often makes them a more affordable option over the long-term.

Dental bridge
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth held in place by crowns on the two achor teeth adjacent to the gap. Unlike implants, which require a surgical procedure, a standard dental bridge is minimally invasive. Some preparation must be done to prepare the anchor teeth for the crown, but no surgery is required for a standard dental bridge. The dental bridge can be used to replace up to four teeth in a row. To help slow jawbone deterioration, implants can be used to anchor the prosthetic teeth if multiple teeth are missing. This would require surgical insertion of the implant posts, but it can be an appropriate cost-saving approach compared to the use of several individual implants.

Flipper tooth (partial denture)
Sometimes the best solution is a temporary one. If you’re missing one or two front teeth but you haven’t quite settled on a permanent solution, a flipper tooth might be just what you need. A flipper tooth, or partial denture, is a customized removable retainer that has one or two prosthetic teeth attached to it. The retainer fits comfortably into the roof of your mouth and the prosthetic tooth fills in the gap. Although the flipper tooth is not designed for permanent use, it will improve your smile and keep your remaining teeth from shifting out of place while you consider your long-term options or while you’re waiting for your gums to heal in preparation for implant placement.

Dentures and partial dentures
For people missing several teeth or even a full set of teeth, dentures are an affordable tooth replacement option that can be completely customized to the needs of the individual. Today’s dentures are more comfortable, more attractive, and more functional than ever before. Technological advances and a more thorough understanding of jaw structure and function have led to significant improvements in modern dentures?and the customization options are numerous. A full set of dentures is typically secured with adhesive. Partial dentures, which can be created to fit like a puzzle piece, are secured with clasps around remaining teeth. For a full mouth of missing teeth, dentures are the most affordable option, but you may also want to consider the long-term benefits of investing in implant-supported dentures for more stability and slower jawbone deterioration.

Affordable tooth replacement in Escondido, Poway, and Rancho Bernardo

Dr. Salami offers a wide range of affordable dental services, including multiple options for tooth replacement. Whether you’re looking to replace one tooth or a full set of teeth, you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Salami is the best dentist in Rancho Bernardo, and our whole staff is committed to your comfort and satisfaction from the moment you walk in the door.

Give us a call at (858) 673-1000 so we can help you set your smile free!