Dental Implant Alternatives
When an individual is missing a tooth or multiple teeth, the dentists at Gooch Family Dental may recommend the use of dental implants. Dental implants can anchor a crown, bridge, or denture in place much like natural tooth roots. That means a smile that’s healthy, stable, and natural looking.
Not everyone can benefit from implant dentistry, which is why our Birmingham, AL, practice offers different alternatives to dental implants. Here, we’ll consider why dental implants may not be the right option for a patient, and how these alternative treatments can enhance your dental health.
Why Dental Implant Alternatives May Be Used
Even though dental implants have high rates of success and satisfaction, they are not always the best option for patients. Here are some reasons why someone may consider an implant dentistry alternative.
- Poor Candidate for Oral Surgery - Oral surgery and a months-long healing process are required for dental implant placement. If a patient is a poor candidate for oral surgery, it’s best to use a non-surgical treatment to address their tooth loss.
- Lack of Bone Density - Good jawbone density is required to anchor dental implants in place. Tooth loss leads to the loss of bone density along the jaw. Bone grafting can be performed to build up jawbone structure. It requires surgery and additional months of healing.
- Looking for a Less Expensive Option - Implant dentistry can be expensive. While our Birmingham practice offers financing options for dental implants, patients may want a more affordable treatment for their tooth loss.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is an ideal option for a person who is missing a single tooth or two teeth in a row. The bridge consists of a false tooth that is bookended by dental crowns. The crowns cap the remaining teeth that are adjacent to the tooth gap, holding the false tooth in place.
Partial Denture
A partial denture is an ideal option for an individual who is missing a few teeth and is no longer eligible for a dental bridge. A partial denture is a custom appliance that consists of a false set of teeth with brackets that can brace around any remaining teeth. The custom fit helps keep the partial denture comfortably in place.
Full Denture
If a person is missing most or all of their teeth, a full denture is the most ideal option. A full denture is a set of false teeth that replaces the entire upper dental arch or lower dental arch. The denture is held in place by bracing around the remaining gum tissue and jawbone. Denture creams and adhesives can be used to further stabilize the denture.
Developing a Treatment Plan for Your Needs
There are many good alternatives to implant dentistry that may be right for you. During your visit to our practice, we will take time to discuss all of your treatments for missing teeth in detail. By weighing the pros and cons with our team of dentists, you’ll be able to make a decision that is right for your needs.
Contact Gooch Family Dental
If you live in the Birmingham area and suffer from tooth loss, our team is here to help. We encourage you to contact Gooch Family Dental online or schedule an appointment by phone at (205) 545-8001.
