If you have a gap in your smile, there are three potential solutions available. These are implants, bridges, or partial dentures. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so let's take a look at what patients need to know.

Implants

Dental implants are typically considered the most expensive option, with work on a single tooth costing between $1,500 and $6,000. The per-tooth cost goes down significantly as more teeth are replaced, but a full mouth of implants may run upwards of $30,000. Many dental plans do not cover dental implants.

Implants are widely considered a permanent solution, as long as the implant post takes in the bone matrix below the gum line. Implant restoration is generally considered easy, as the cap on an artificial tooth, if it is damaged or discolored, can simply be replaced with a new one or repaired using resin.

Bridges

The idea behind a dental bridge is to fill the gap in a person's smile by mounting a replacement artificial tooth onto two existing ones. A cap is placed over each of the natural teeth and sealed into place, and the artificial tooth ends up actually bridging the gap. In some instances, such as when there isn't a rear molar present to act as an anchor, an implant post can be installed to serve the role of a missing tooth.

How many teeth are being spanned is a big cost factor, as is the type of mounting point. They can range in cost from $1,500 to $15,000. Notably, bridges may need to be replaced or restored after 5 to 10 years.

Partial Dentures

Generally considered the cheapest solution, partial dentures usually cost less than $1,000. Some other cost factors, such as how much metal is involved and how many teeth are being replaced, will come into play. A major advantage of partial dentures is that the majority of health insurance providers will cover them.

A partial denture is an appliance that's placed into the space where the tooth used to be. It is removable, and it stays in place by holding onto nearby teeth and gums.

Deciding Factors

Getting an implant depends on having healthy enough teeth and gums in the area to act as mount points for the bridge. Similarly, implants require enough bone wherever the post will be inserted. Partial dentures are often the fallback for patients who don't meet the bridge or implant criteria.

Go to sites like https://www.vanyodentistry.com/ for more information about these devices.

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