Tooth replacement is more affordable than ever before. Additionally, you have more options than during any other decade! Of course, your Lodi or Elk Grove dentist can help you choose the option that best meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle, but it’s fantastic to learn that a new smile is within reach.
Let’s Explore Various Tooth Replacement Options for Every Budget and Lifestyle.
Tooth Replacement Options
Removable Dentures
Dentures have been around for centuries but have improved immensely over the last few decades. Today’s modern dentures look natural and allow you to incorporate more of your favorite foods into your diet.
Dentures are gum-colored prosthetics fixed with custom replacement teeth. These prosthetics fit over the gum and rely on gravity and suction for support. Lower dentures also depend on the natural ridges of the jawbone for added stability.
Removable Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are partial prosthetics consisting of artificial teeth that fit around existing teeth. We use clips for added support.
Single Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard and synonymous with function, aesthetics, and longevity. They have been known to last for decades or even a lifetime.
Dental implants are titanium screws that stand in for missing tooth roots. They are surgically positioned in the jawbone using image-guided technology. These replacement roots bond or integrate into the jawbone over time (usually a few months). After integration, your dentist tops your post with a custom dental crown, which acts as your new tooth.
Dental implants are the only option that helps stop bone loss in the jaw, which can lead to a prematurely aged look and future dental health complications.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Implant-retained dentures, also called All-on-4® in Elk Grove and Lodi, CA, are low-profile dentures fixed to the jaw with implants. Typically, it takes only four dental implants to attach this prosthetic.
With All-on-4, you’ll never have to soak your dentures in a special bath, apply adhesives for stability, or visit your dentist for adjustments and relines. Additionally, you can enjoy an unrestricted diet with implant singles and implant-retained dentures.
All-on-4 means you can replace all teeth using dental implant technology, but you’ll not have to purchase an implant post for every lost tooth.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are customized replacement teeth situated between dental crowns—one on either side of the prosthetic teeth. The crowns cap the tooth to the left and right of your smile gap. This allows the replacement teeth to complete your smile.
In some cases, your dentist may opt to use an implant to secure your bridge if the neighboring teeth are not sufficient for support.
Tooth Replacement: Budget and Lifestyle Considerations
When it comes to tooth replacement, many people don’t consider future savings and how specific options may mean less care and upkeep down the road. Care and upkeep contribute to costs in the long term.
Removable dentures and partials are sometimes less expensive up front, but they require relines, adhesives (eventually), and replacement more often than dental implants.
The dental bridge has a similar lifespan. Additionally, they must be cleaned with special cleaning brushes to avoid complications like gum irritation, oral infections, and gum disease.
Dental implants require brushing, flossing, and visiting your Elk Grove or Lodi dentist every six months for dental checkups. The six-month schedule is also recommended for patients who do not have dental implants.
In other words, long-term dental implants may be the most cost-effective and lifestyle-friendly option for everyone at any age!
Tooth replacement costs will always vary due to the complexity of your case and the type of prosthetic. However, we provide a consultation, which allows your dentist to determine the final cost based on assessment findings and your preferences.
To help our patients budget tooth replacement costs, we work with third-party financing through CareCredit. We also have our own in-office plan that discounts specific dental treatments, including select tooth replacement options. Ask a dental team member for details.
Contact Your Dental Implant Dentist in Lodi or Elk Grove
Replacing missing teeth improves your lifestyle, food selection, and self-esteem. We want to help you live your best life with a smile you love!
To schedule a comprehensive consultation with the dentist or if you have questions about our tooth replacement options, contact a helpful dental team member today to get started.