Whether you’re missing one tooth or several teeth, partial dentures are a fantastic way to fill in gaps and regain your confidence. Single-tooth dentures are a common solution for individuals who experience tooth loss at any stage of life and provide essential support and cosmetic improvements to your smile.
Wondering if one-tooth dentures are right for you? Here’s a brief overview of what to expect from your dental appliance.
Why Dentures?
While it may be tempting to ignore a missing tooth (particularly if it’s not visible) there are serious drawbacks to letting a gap in your smile go untreated. Without the support and protection of a replacement tooth, individuals with missing teeth are more susceptible to dental complications such as:
- Gum disease.
- Bone loss.
- Misaligned teeth.
- Difficulty chewing.
- Jaw pain.
In addition to addressing current dental problems, choosing a well-made tooth replacement is an investment in your future health.
What are My Options for Single Tooth Replacement?
In general, there are two primary options for single-tooth replacement: partial dentures and dental implants. Both have benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the best tooth replacement method will depend on the nature of your tooth loss, overall oral health, and budget.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution to address tooth loss. Unlike partial dentures which may be removed at any time, dental implants are made to function like natural teeth. The dental implant process begins by surgically installing a titanium post into the jawbone to serve as an anchor for the implant. Once the patient has recovered from the initial procedure, a tooth replica crown made of porcelain or acrylic is fitted onto the post.
Pros:
- Dental implants are a long-term, permanent solution.
- Implants don’t require any extra maintenance and can be cared for just like natural teeth.
- Dental implants are made of high-quality materials that stand wear and tear over years of use.
Cons:
- The dental implant installation process permanently alters your jaw.
- Dental implants are typically more expensive than partial dentures.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are removable tooth replacement appliances, similar to retainers. Partial dentures are made by taking a mold of your existing teeth and fabricating a replacement tooth that fills the gap in your smile. The replacement tooth is color-matched to your natural teeth to provide a seamless appearance. Partial dentures are easy to install and are typically secured by hooking metal or resin attachments around neighboring teeth to hold the appliance in place.
Pros:
- Partial dentures are a more affordable option than dental implants.
- Partial dentures are non-invasive and don’t require any oral surgery.
- Partial dentures are lightweight and comfortable.
Cons:
- Since partial dentures aren’t built to last for decades, you may need to order a new set after several years of wear.
- Partial dentures need to be removed for cleaning.
- If not stored in a secure place, partial dentures are easily lost or damaged.
What are the Benefits of Dentures?
Dentures aren’t only about aesthetics. They offer physical and mental benefits that vastly improve your ability to eat, talk, and maintain oral health.
- Partial dentures act as a bolster to neighboring teeth and prevent teeth from shifting over time.
- Partial dentures improve your ability to eat, increasing the nutrients you extract from your food.
- Partial dentures provide an empowering confidence boost and make socializing and meeting new people less stressful or awkward.
Getting Your Dentures with Dental Lab Direct
At Dental Lab Direct, we’re dedicated to providing high-quality tooth replacement options at prices you can afford. With our attention to detail, personalized manufacturing process, and FDA-approved materials, Dental Lab Direct’s products are guaranteed to be safe and comfortable. Want to get started? Our three-step ordering process makes getting your new dental appliance simple and hassle-free. First, visit our website and request an impression kit in the mail. Once the kit arrives at your home, make impressions of your teeth in 10-15 minutes. Then mail the kit back to us using the pre-paid shipping label and your custom appliance will be delivered to your door in 2-3 weeks. Contact us today to get started!
