-- Depending on the number of missing teeth, comfort level of the patient, and price, there are a number of different tooth replacement options used in dentistry today.

1.) Fixed Bridge -- a fixed bridge is one of the more popular treatments for single, to multiple tooth replacements. In this situation, a space can be filled with a "pontic," or false tooth, that is attached between two crowns. In order to create the bridge, the healthy teeth adjacent to the space must be shaved down and prepared to recieve crowns. Fixed bridges are realtively strong, and can last for several years. There are a number of variations to this type of restoration, but the overall goal remains constant.

2.) Maryland Bridge -- a Maryland bridge is a treatment option for single tooth replacement. A single pontic is held in place by two "wings" that are cemented or bonded to the lingual sides of the adjacent teeth. Maryland bridges are mainly designed for anterior teeth, due to the fact that they are far too weak to sustain the chewing forces of posterior teeth.

 

3.) Removable Partial Denture -- In situations where multiple teeth are missing, especially if entire areas are edentulous, a removable partial denture may be fabricated in order to provide compensation. Partial dentures are usually composed of a metal arch support, connected to false gingiva and false teeth. The gingival prosthesis is made of acrylic, while the teeth can be porcelain or also acrylic. Like the fixed bridge, there is a large variety of partial denture types.

4.) Full Dentures (Upper and Lower) -- For some people, when all restorative options have been exhausted, or financial restraints have eliminated other treatment possibilities, extraction of remaining teeth and placement of full dentures becomes a logical choice. Whether the upper arch, lower arch, or entire mouth becomes edentulous, the full denture is an easy, and relatively affordable way to replace one's teeth, and restore their ability to both eat and speak as they had once before.

5.) IMPLANTS -- If certain anatomical and spacial requirements are met, and a person has healthy bone structure, dental implants can be placed as a foundation for permanent tooth replacement. Dental implant is a titanium "screw," for lack of a better term, that is surgically positioned into the maxilla or the mandible and allowed to integrate itself into the surrounding osseous tissue, becoming a permanent fixture in the jaw bone. Single crowns, bridges, and even over-dentures can be placed over dental implants, creating a solid, long-lasting fixture of tooth replacement.