At Mission Valley Dental Arts, we have several options for replacing missing teeth. If you have a tooth that was knocked out in an accident or removed due to decay, we can perform a procedure to replace it so you can regain the full functionality and appearance of your smile. If you live in the San Diego, California area, we invite you to give us a call(619) 805-4248and make an appointment with our dental practice. After the exam, we'll give you a recommendation on which procedure is likely to yield the best results for your appearance and lifestyle goals.
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How can I determine which missing denture options are right for me?
At our San Diego dental practice, we understand the importance of choice. We know that if we see 10 people with tooth loss, each of them will have a slightly different goal and their lifestyle will be different. Things like the type of food you like to eat, whether or not you exercise, whether you're outgoing and sociable, or prefer to keep to yourself can all affect which denture option is right for you. For this reason, we take the time during a consultation to ask questions and get to know you. Asking about your hobbies and whether or not you exercise might seem out of place for a dentist, but it all makes sense. For example, if your hobbies involve singing in a choir, dentures may not be a good solution for you as they could fall out of position. At the same time, if you enjoy running marathons, you need a denture solution that won't loosen under aggressive impacts. After asking you questions and conducting a physical exam, we make a recommendation on which option we think best suits your lifestyle. If you're a good candidate for everyone, we'll let you know as well so you can ask more specific questions about the procedures and the costs involved.
Of all missing denture options, which one is the most durable?
At Mission Valley Dental Arts, we can give you a well-made and durable replacement tooth, no matter which option you choose. However, if you are looking for a replacement option that looks, feels and behaves like a natural tooth, a dental implant is the most effective. Upon completion of this procedure, we implant a titanium post under the gums and attach it to the jawbone. This serves as a replacement root system. Over the course of one to several months, titanium and bone fuse to form a new root system that is just as strong as the original. The process of osseointegration enables us to provide you with a strong and durable denture that you can rely on. In our dental practice, we then attach a new tooth that has been specially adapted to your surrounding teeth. An implant is the next best thing to a natural tooth. It's important to note that this is a surgical procedure and your jawbone must be of sufficient density to qualify. Therefore, not everyone is suitable for the procedure. However, there are other permanent replacement solutions, such as B. a dental bridge.
A bridge is made by attaching a dental crown to the two teeth surrounding the missing tooth. These crowns act as anchors to hold in place a gum-colored bridge to which a new tooth will be attached. This is the most permanent non-surgical solution you can get to replace a missing tooth as it is permanent. Many of our patients prefer this as an alternative to dentures while being less invasive than implants. In a consultation, we can explain the advantages of both options to you so that you can decide which solution is best for you. If you have restrictions, e.g. B. If your remaining teeth are not healthy enough to support a bridge, we will let you know and suggest another solution.
In some cases, dentures are an ideal way to replace missing teeth. While they are not as durable or robust as an implant or bridge, they have their place. Dentures are an ideal instant solution while waiting for another cosmetic procedure. They may also be necessary if you have suffered from resorption and no longer have strong remaining teeth. In this situation, modern dentistry has made it possible to wear dentures that look natural and are less likely to slip.
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San Diego options to replace missing teeth
Will my lack of denture options affect my age?
At Mission Valley Dental Arts, our goal is to provide you with a denture solution that looks beautiful, natural and fits your lifestyle. While age is a factor in healthcare, it has less to do with your ideal denture solution and more to do with your lifestyle. For example, you might be a senior and don't want to wear dentures, although they are common. Regardless of your age, if you lead an active lifestyle, dental implants could be the best solution simply because they are the sturdiest option and allow you to maintain all of your activities. What should be noted, and this does not have to be age-related, is that when a tooth is lost, the process of resorption begins. This is when the body begins to leach calcium from your jawbone and distribute it to the rest of the body. The longer you wait to visit our San Diego dental office and have your tooth replaced, the less bone density you will have. If you then replace the tooth, your options may be more limited. This makes losing a tooth an urgent matter.
We recommend calling619-805-4248and make an appointment in our dental practice as soon as your tooth has fallen out or knocked out. During your appointment, we examine your gums, take X-rays, and make a recommendation on which denture option is best for your needs. If you act on it quickly, you can restore your appearance and oral health.
To learn more about dental options for replacing missing teeth, call today and make an appointment with our San Diego dental office.
Questions answered on this page
Q. Which dentures are right for me?
Q. What is the most durable denture?
Q. Will my age determine my options?
People ask too
Q. Can dental bridges replace my missing teeth and restore my smile?
Q. Are dental implants better than dentures or dental bridges?
Q. Can I eat my favorite foods after receiving dental implants?
Definition of terminology for dental implants
- abutment
- An abutment is a component that attaches to the dental implant to allow a professional to place a dental crown to provide patients with an artificial, aesthetically pleasing, and fully functional smile.
- bone formation
- Bone augmentation is the process by which a doctor rebuilds bone to strengthen it sufficiently for the placement of dental implants.
- bone density
- Bone density refers to the amount of bone mineral in bone tissue.
- Bridge
- A set of replacement teeth fixed by attachment to dental implants, adjacent natural teeth, or a combination of both.
- Zahnkrone
- A crown is an artificial tooth, usually made of porcelain, that covers the top of the implant to provide people with an aesthetically pleasing and fully functional tooth.
- dental implant
- A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is placed in your jaw to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants can be an option for people who have lost a tooth or teeth due to periodontitis, injury, or other reasons.
- Endosteal (enossal)
- Endosteal is a type of dental implant that a professional places in the alveolar and basal bones of the lower jaw, crossing only one cortical plate.
- Eposteal (subperiostal)
- Eposteal is a type of dental implant that conforms to the edentulous surface of an alveolar bone, which is higher.
- Implant-supported bridge
- An implant-supported bridge is a dental bridge that is attached by professionals to dental implants placed in the jaw to create a stable artificial set of teeth.
- oral irrigator
- An oral irrigator is a type of dental flossing device that uses a jet of water to clean between your teeth and improve gum health.
- Osseointegration
- Osseointegration is the process by which a titanium dental implant fuses with the surrounding bone over several months after a dentist places the implant in the jaw.
- Periodontal
- Literally "around the tooth"
- Removable total denture
- A removable full denture is a full denture that can be removed when needed, at night, or for cleaning.
- Resin bonded bridge
- A resin bonded bridge is a dental bridge that is attached to the surrounding teeth with a type of resin by professionals to provide a permanent solution for patients.
- Resorption
- Resorption is the process by which the body absorbs the calcium from the jaw as there are no tooth roots to provide the necessary stimulation and the calcium is used in other areas.
- Ridge Extension
- Ridge widening widens the jaw to accommodate more dental implants when there is not enough space for the implants.
- Transosseal (transosseous)
- Transosteal is a type of dental implant that includes threaded posts that penetrate the upper and lower cortical bone plates of the jaw.
Helpful related links
- American Dental Association (ADA).Glossary of dental terms.2015
- American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry® (AACD).Home page.2015
- WebMD.Oral Care Guide von WebMD.2015
About our business, license and website security
- Mission Valley Dental Arts was founded in 2000.
- Better business office(Y/A+ rating).View BBB Annual Report
- We accept the following payment methods: American Express, cash, check, Discover, MasterCard and Visa
- We serve patients from the following counties: San Diego County
- We serve patients from the following cities: San Diego, La Mesa, Carlsbad, Chula Vista and Del Mar
- CA (License #43989).View license information and specifications
- National Provider Identification Database(1750595195).View NPI registration information
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FAQs
Options for single missing teeth or multiple teeth? ›
Dental implants are one of the most common methods of tooth replacement. Dental implants are a very reliable type of tooth replacement that both looks and feels like a real tooth. Dental implants provide a permanent solution if you need to replace a single tooth, or multiple teeth, in different areas.
What is the best procedure for multiple missing teeth? ›Dental implants
This is one of the most common and preferred methods of replacing multiple missing teeth. Implants are not only long-lasting but also feel and look nearly identical to natural teeth. Dental implants replace a missing tooth root with a titanium screw that is inserted into the jawbone.
- Dental implant. A dental implant is a surgical procedure in which a replacement tooth root is placed and fused with the jawbone. ...
- Fixed bridge. ...
- Resin-retained bridge. ...
- Removable partial denture. ...
- Removable complete denture.
Missing a tooth, even just one, can cause severe and permanent damage to your entire mouth. When you lose a back molar, its surrounding teeth are also impacted because they lose surrounding structure and support. Unfortunately, this causes your other back teeth to shift.
What is the least invasive way to replace a missing tooth? ›A resin-retained bridge is often much less invasive than a fixed bridge. While a fixed bridge is best for teeth that are relied upon for chewing, a resin-retained bridge can be a good alternative for missing front teeth, which typically don't endure as much pressure.
What are my options if I have one missing tooth? ›Dental implants
Dental implants are one of the most common methods of tooth replacement. Dental implants are a very reliable type of tooth replacement that both looks and feels like a real tooth. Dental implants provide a permanent solution if you need to replace a single tooth, or multiple teeth, in different areas.
Dental implants are the preferred method of replacing missing teeth. A metal post is put in place of the root, and an artificial tooth that looks and feels natural replaces the missing tooth. The process takes some time because the implant will fuse to the jawbone.
How much is a flipper for four teeth? ›A dental flipper is one of the most affordable false teeth options out there. Flipper teeth typically cost between $300-$500. However, the cost is dependent on the number of teeth you replace using the flipper and the materials used.
What is the cheapest option to fix a missing tooth? ›Dentures. The most affordable tooth replacement solution is dentures. This is because they take the least amount of time to create. There is no surgery and no dental crowns to place.
Do all missing teeth need to be replaced? ›Any number of missing teeth can cause serious oral and overall health issues. Ultimately, tooth loss begets more tooth loss. So, if you have just one missing tooth, it's very likely that more will follow if it isn't replaced.
What is the downside of missing tooth? ›
Tooth loss provides an opening for bacteria to enter your gums, leading to inflammation, infection, and gum disease. Gum disease can damage the connective tissues and bones supporting your teeth, causing them to become loose and eventually fall out.
Why you should never ignore a missing tooth? ›When there's a gap in your teeth because of a missing tooth, there's space for bacteria, tartar, and plaque to get into your gum line. This puts you at greater risk of gum disease. Once gum disease sets in, you're at greater risk for some serious medical conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
Can you put a crown where there is no tooth? ›Dental crowns, sometimes called dental caps, serve many purposes in dentistry. They can enhance the look of a misshapen tooth, protect a tooth after a root canal, or strengthen a tooth with a large filling. Dental crowns can even replace a missing tooth.
How can I cover my missing teeth while waiting for the implant? ›Temporary crown
While waiting for implants, temporary crowns may be a good choice. It is usually made of acrylic-based plastic, and the dentist will cement it in place. The crown offers an aesthetically pleasing option. It will appear like a real tooth, though the patient should be cautious about eating hard foods.
The Snap-On Smile® appliance is expected to last about 3 to 5 years and possibly longer with proper care, the same length of time as other removable appliances such as partial dentures, brux guards or night guards.
What does a denture look like for one tooth? ›What do single tooth dentures look like? Generally, a single tooth denture looks like a single false tooth connected to a plastic salmon pink or gum coloured retainer. Sometimes there are metal or acrylic attachments and clasps. These help secure and support the denture to your remaining natural teeth.
What is the most common missing tooth? ›The most common missing teeth are wisdom teeth, upper lateral incisors, and second premolars/bicuspids.
What is a single fake tooth called? ›A dental implant provides several advantages over other tooth replacement options. In addition to looking and functioning like a natural tooth, a dental implant replaces a single tooth without sacrificing the health of neighboring teeth.
What are other options besides dental implants? ›- Dental Bridges. A dental bridge is recommended when a patient has one or more missing teeth. ...
- Dentures. Dentures are a natural-looking, comfortable, and removable tooth replacement option. ...
- Resin-Bonded Bridge. ...
- Flipper. ...
- Implant-Supported Bridge.
With numbed nerves, you can expect not to feel any pain during your dental implant procedure. You may feel pressure at times, but it should not cause you discomfort. For patients who have anxiety with dental procedures, oral sedation is available.
What are the disadvantages of flipper tooth? ›
Cons of a Flipper Tooth
Compared to metal framework dentures, flipper teeth can be more brittle, deteriorate faster, and not hold up as well to chewing and regular daily use. People often complain that a flipper tooth is uncomfortable, and it can also put too much pressure on your gums and bone, causing further damage.
The benefits of a flipper tooth are numerous.
And not only do they fill gaps and improve your appearance, but they provide stability for your surrounding teeth, preventing them from shifting. The icing on the cake? Flipper teeth are the most affordable choice when considering temporary teeth replacement methods.
Dental flippers are typically intended to be worn temporarily, while you wait for your gums to heal before getting a permanent implant. But some people may choose to wear flippers indefinitely, either because of the low cost or because they're lightweight and easy to adjust to.
Where is the cheapest place to fix teeth in the world? ›Turkey is the best place to get dental work done. The reasons are qualified dentists that offer their work at a low price. Therefore, you can correct your smile and be sure of the long-lasting result. Also, Turkish clinics provide the best condition for foreign patients.
Why are tooth implants so expensive? ›Dental Implant is a cosmetic and a complex process. You pay for the skills of the dentist. Implant posts and dental crowns adds to the cost. Additional procedures if required like whitening, extractions and so on.
Can you get a fake tooth after an extraction? ›An implant can be placed right after an extraction if you have healthy gums and sufficient jawbone density. Once the tooth has been removed, your dentist can immediately insert the titanium post into your jaw. Then, it gradually fuses with the bone to provide a reliable foundation for a custom dental crown.
What is the average missing teeth by age? ›According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), by age 50, most Americans have lost an average of 12 teeth. The full adult dentition consists of 32 teeth. That means by age 50 you can expect to have 37% fewer teeth.
What is the difference between a partial denture and a flipper? ›A partial denture is a larger appliance than flippers because they are meant to replace multiple teeth, but not a whole mouthful. Flipper dentures are intended to fill in the gap created by one or two teeth. On the other hand, partial dentures are made for three or more teeth, whether or not they're in a row.
How long should you wait to replace a missing tooth? ›Ideally, you should address the problem of missing teeth as soon as possible. If you have extractions done, you should wait no more than four to six months to replace the missing teeth. This will give your gums time to heal, but still, be soon enough that you don't have to worry about your teeth shifting.
Can you live long with missing teeth? ›Now research has shown that loosing your teeth will actually shorten your lifespan. Missing nine teeth for nine years or more reduces our lifespan compared to a contemporary who maintains their teeth.
Why can't a dentist save a tooth? ›
Damage below the gumline – A severe crack or split below your gumline may make it impossible for a dentist to save the tooth. Severe trauma – Fractured tooth roots or extensive damage may make it challenging for a dentist to save your tooth.
Is missing a tooth a disability? ›Loss of teeth by themselves is not ratable. The VA does not consider this truly disabling because they are easily replaceable by false teeth. Teeth also cannot be rated if they are lost from naturally occurring diseases related to aging. They must be lost as a result of injury, accident, or disease.
Can you eat with flippers in your mouth? ›You can eat anything you want while wearing your dental flipper. But avoid these foods: Hard foods such as raw vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. Soft foods like mashed potatoes and soft fruit (unless they're cooked)
Can you sleep with flipper teeth? ›We may suggest you wear your flipper tooth 24 hours a day in the beginning to get used to it, but sleeping with it regularly could damage the partial and cause you to have dry mouth and develop gum disease, gum recession, or bone deterioration.
What is a snap on smile? ›It is a complete set of porcelain teeth that a person wears over their natural smile (it literally “snaps on”) to cover up the appearance of the current teeth and boost the wearer's confidence, making it a popular choice for people who want to achieve a beautiful new smile without the need for extensive dental ...
At what point is a tooth not savable? ›The biggest factor a dentist looks at when deciding if a tooth can be saved is how much “good” tooth structure there is left. If the tooth is broken at the gumline and has a big cavity that goes down to the bone then there is little hope that the tooth can be saved.
Should I be embarrassed for a missing tooth? ›Feeling embarrassed by missing teeth is very common, but even if you're missing one, two, or more teeth, you're absolutely not alone. In fact, it's more rare to reach adulthood with all your teeth intact.
What is the least common missing tooth? ›The most commonly missing teeth are the third molars, mandibular second molars, maxillary permanent lateral incisors, and maxillary second premolars. In contrast, the least commonly missing permanent teeth are the maxillary central incisors, the maxillary and mandibular first molars, and the mandibular canines.
What happens if there isn't enough tooth left for a crown? ›When there isn't enough natural tooth to securely attach the crown, a dentist will first reconstruct the tooth using composite resin (core build up). This durable material is applied in thin layers, rebuilding the tooth's surface until it's large enough to support the crown.
Can you get veneers with a missing tooth? ›The short answer is no; veneers can't replace missing teeth. To have a dental veneer placed, there needs to be a tooth there in the first place.
What if my crown falls off and there is no tooth left? ›
If your crown fell out with no tooth left, you may have to consider alternate methods for replacing the tooth. Only your dentist can determine the best course of treatment, so it's important not to panic. Take a breath and make an appointment with your dental team as soon as possible.
What makes you not a candidate for dental implants? ›Age limitations for dental implants are explained earlier, and teenagers without complete jawbone growth are the sole candidates considered unsuitable for dental implants. Anyone who is 70 would have attained total jawbone growth several years earlier.
Can you get temporary teeth while waiting for dentures? ›Temporary dentures (false teeth) are dentures that can be fitted straight after your teeth have been removed – also called immediate dentures. They are an option to help you carry on as normal whilst waiting for your new permanent dentures to be fitted.
Can implants be placed anywhere a tooth is missing? ›Dental implants can be placed anywhere in the mouth in one of the two arches. It depends on the presence of bone. The dentist places the fixed dental bridge where there is sufficient tooth support around the area of the missing tooth.
How much does snap on cost? ›The Snap-On Smile generally costs between $1,000 and $3,500 depending on your dentist. It is relatively risk-free and considered safe. This prescription device must be delivered by a licensed dentist.
Do snap on teeth look real? ›Snap-on teeth, also known as snap-on smiles, are designed to fit over your teeth to provide a natural smile. Think of them as a clear retainer; however, they are treated with a custom-shading to make them look like your natural teeth.
Can u eat with snap on teeth? ›There won't be any drilling, shots or change in tooth structure. You can eat and drink while wearing Snap-On Smile. They can be worn every day. With proper care, your Snap-On Smile can last from three to five years, giving you time to save up for a more permanent cosmetic solution.
How do you fix 3 missing teeth in a row? ›An implant-supported bridge can be used to replace several missing teeth in a row. Two or more missing teeth in a row can be replaced either with individual implants or implant-supported bridges. An implant-supported bridge is a row of crowns supported by two or more implants.
What happens when you lose multiple teeth? ›When one or several teeth are missing, the bone in the surrounding area no longer gets the stimulation to grow, resulting in bone loss. With time, this bone loss can make your jaw shrink, altering the shape of your face and making it not stable enough to support the remaining teeth.
How many teeth can be removed at once? ›How many teeth can I have extracted at once? There is no limit to the number of teeth you can have extracted at once. While having multiple teeth extracted during the same procedure is rare, it is sometimes the only option for patients with severe tooth decay.
What is an alternative to teeth implants? ›
- Dental Bridges. A dental bridge is recommended when a patient has one or more missing teeth. ...
- Dentures. Dentures are a natural-looking, comfortable, and removable tooth replacement option. ...
- Resin-Bonded Bridge. ...
- Flipper. ...
- Implant-Supported Bridge.
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), by age 50, most Americans have lost an average of 12 teeth. The full adult dentition consists of 32 teeth. That means by age 50 you can expect to have 37% fewer teeth.
Is it bad to have 4 missing teeth? ›If you are missing more than one tooth, your facial muscles can become lazy and saggy, and your jaw bone weaker, so you can lose structure to your face.
Can you replace multiple teeth? ›Multiple tooth implants provide several advantages over fixed bridges and removable partial dentures. In addition to looking and functioning like natural teeth, multiple tooth dental implants replace teeth without support from adjacent natural teeth.
What is the most painful tooth to extract? ›What is the most difficult tooth to extract? Impacted wisdom teeth are wisdom teeth that have failed to erupt properly. They are generally considered to be the most difficult teeth to extract.
Do you have to go without teeth before getting dentures? ›Immediate dentures, unlike regular dentures, are made before tooth extraction. With immediate dentures, you never have to leave the dental office without teeth. That's because immediate dentures, as the name suggests, allow for extractions and dentures in the same day.
How long does it take to get dentures after teeth are pulled? ›The general rule after having your teeth extracted to get dentures is to wait between three to six months.