Several options are available to replace missing teeth. Dr. Gilly Calcagno, family dentist in Rochester, MN recommends dental implants as the most cost-effective permanent solution to tooth loss. A dental implant consists of a small titanium rod that is placed into your jaw, just like your natural teeth, to hold a replacement tooth or bridge. The rod works with the bone, eventually forming a bond with it, similar to the bond between the natural tooth and jaw bone. Dental implants are the closest thing to your natural teeth.
What are other tooth replacement options?
Dentures (removal “false teeth”) were the primary choice for many years. While they have greatly improved, there are some disadvantages to dentures:
- Maintenance, including use of special cleansers and adhesives
- Poor fit
- Need for replacement, due to deterioration or weight loss or gain, which would require new dentures for better fit
Fixed bridges span the space where the teeth are missing. For a long time, fixed bridges were a popular option for replacing lost teeth. Unlike dentures, they cannot be removed, and they have a more natural look than dentures. Bridges are cemented to the natural teeth surrounding the empty space. These adjacent natural teeth serve as anchors for the bridge. Due to the re-shaping of the natural or abutment teeth, on either side, bridges do present some difficulties:
- Damaging healthy teeth to replace the missing teeth Increase potential of natural teeth developing:
- Bacterial plaque accumulation
- Decay, Periodontal disease
- Possible need for future root canals
- With the best maintenance and proper care, fixed bridges may last only about 10 years
What are the advantages of dental implants?
Dental implants are strong and stable. They restore lost teeth so that they look, feel, and fit like your natural teeth. The dental implants are placed in the jawbone, in the same spot where the missing tooth root was, without impacting adjacent healthy teeth. Dental implants are the only tooth restoration option that preserves and stimulates natural bone, actually helping to stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss.
About Calgano Family Dentistry
To learn more about dental implants in Rochester, MN, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Gilly Calcagno, contact our office at 507.316.6288. We welcome patients living in Winona, Red Wing, St. Charles, Farmington, and the neighboring areas.
