Losing teeth can be a traumatic experience for many people, whether it’s due to age, accidents, or oral health issues. Not only does it affect one’s ability to chew and speak properly, but it also impacts self-confidence and overall quality of life. Fortunately, with advancements in dental technology, there are now several options for tooth replacement available to restore a smile and functionality. In this article, we will explore these missing teeth and compare the costs for people who have lost teeth recently.
The most common teeth replacement options include dentures, dental implants, and dental bridges. Dentures are removable false teeth that are designed to replace a few or all missing teeth. They are made from acrylic, metal, or a combination of both and can be custom-made to fit the shape of the patient’s mouth. Dentures are typically the most affordable teeth replacement option, with costs ranging from $500 to $3,000 per arch. However, they do have some drawbacks, including potential discomfort and difficulty in chewing certain foods.
Dental implants, on the other hand, are a more permanent teeth replacement option that involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as a foundation for a replacement tooth. This option is ideal for those who have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth as it offers a natural look and feel, and does not require any alteration to adjacent teeth. The cost of dental implants can range from $1,500 to $6,000, depending on the number of teeth being replaced and the complexity of the case. Although dental implants have a higher upfront cost, they are more durable and require less maintenance compared to other molar replacement.
Another teeth replacement option is dental bridges, which are prosthetic teeth that are attached to neighboring healthy teeth or dental implants. This option is suitable for those who have one or a few missing teeth in a row and do not want to go through extensive surgery. The cost of dental bridges can range from $500 to $1,200 per tooth, making it a more affordable option compared to dental implants. However, dental bridges may not be as durable as dental implants and may need to be replaced after a few years.