What Are The Options For Replacement Teeth After Extraction?

Losing teeth happens – could be from rot, gum problems, or getting whacked – and it messes with your smile and how you chew. The bright side? There are great ways to fix it! A dentist in Calgary can hook you up with what works for you, no sweat.

Let’s run through common ways to replace teeth, what’s good and bad about them, and how to pick the best one.

Why Should You Replace Missing Teeth?

Lots of folks figure a lost tooth is just a look thing, but it’s way bigger than that. Those gaps in your smile can mess with stuff like:

• Trouble chowing down on some foods
• Your speech might change, or you might find it hard to say things.
• Teeth close by can start moving around.
• Your jawbone can fade away over time.
• The rest of your teeth get worked harder.

Getting those teeth replaced helps keep your mouth in good shape, keeps your bite right, and gets your confidence back up.

Option 1: Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular long-term tooth replacement options. They involve placing a small titanium post into your jawbone, which acts like the root of a tooth. A crown (artificial tooth) is then attached to the top.

Benefits of dental implants:

• Look and feel like natural teeth
  
• Long-lasting with proper care
  
• Prevent jawbone shrinkage
  
• Strong enough for most foods
  

Possible considerations:

• Requires minor surgery
  
• Higher upfront cost than some options
  
• Takes a few months to fully complete

Option 2: Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed replacement that “bridges” the gap between two healthy teeth. The replacement tooth (or teeth) is affixed in the centre, while crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap.

Benefits of dental bridges:

• Don’t need surgery
  
• Provide a natural look and function.
  
• Finished in a few weeks on average.
  

Possible considerations:

• May require reshaping of healthy teeth
  
• Does not prevent bone loss in the jaw
  
• Can wear down over time and need replacement

Option 3: Dentures

Dentures are removable appliances that replace multiple missing teeth, or even a full set. They are available for both the lower and upper jaw.

Benefits of dentures:

• Affordable option for multiple missing teeth
  
• Can be made quickly
  
• Easy to adjust or replace
  

Possible considerations:

• May feel less stable than fixed options
  
• It can take time to get used to
  
• Requires daily removal for cleaning
  

Option 4: Non-Surgical Alternatives to Dental Implants

Not everyone can—or wants to—go through surgery for implants. Fortunately, there are non-surgical alternatives to dental implants that can still give you a functional, attractive smile. These include:

• Removable partial dentures – Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting other teeth.
  
• Resin-bonded bridges – A less invasive bridge option that uses metal or porcelain “wings” bonded to nearby teeth.
  
• Flexible partials – Made from softer materials for extra comfort and a natural look.
  

These alternatives are great for people who want a quicker, less invasive solution or for those with certain health conditions that make surgery riskier.

How to Choose the Right Option

The best choice depends on several factors:

• Number of missing teeth – A single missing tooth may be best replaced with an implant or bridge, while several missing teeth may be better suited for dentures.
  
• Budget – Some options cost more upfront but last longer, while others are more affordable but may need more frequent replacement.
  
• Health and bone structure – Implants require healthy gums and enough jawbone.
  
• Personal preference – Some people prefer a fixed, permanent option, while others are happy with removable solutions.
  

A dentist near you in Calgary can help you compare these options based on your unique needs and lifestyle.

Caring for Your Replacement Teeth

Regardless of which replacement option you choose, proper care is essential to keep them looking and working their best:

• Make sure to use a soft-bristled brush at least twice a day.
  
• Floss or use interdental cleaners daily
  
• Clean dentures and partials as directed by your dentist
  
• Visit your dentist regularly for checkups and adjustments.
  
• Refrain from biting hard objects or opening packages with your teeth.
  

Good oral hygiene and regular dental visits will help your replacement teeth last longer.

When to Replace Missing Teeth Immediately

Sometimes, replacing a missing tooth right away is the best choice. You may need urgent replacement if:

• Certain foods are difficult for you to chew.
  
• There’s a noticeable shift in your remaining teeth.
  
• Your smile makes you feel self-conscious.
  
• Your bite changes, or your jaw hurts.
  

Delaying treatment can make the problem harder (and more expensive) to fix later.

Improve Your Smile With Centre and 12th Dental Clinic.

Our staff at the Centre and 12th Dental Clinic are available to help you find the best solution if one or more of your teeth are missing. To meet every need and comfort level, we provide dental implants, bridges, dentures, and non-surgical alternatives to dental implants. Our helpful staff will walk you through your options, weigh the benefits and drawbacks, and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Let us assist you in smiling with assurance once more. Make an appointment right now to start down the path to a full, healthy smile.