Healthy teeth give you the most attractive smile. Teeth are also important for chewing and speaking. Every tooth in the oral cavity has a unique function. Missing one is very unfortunate. Teeth loss can be due to trauma, periodontitis (gum disease), genetic condition, a decayed tooth, etc. If the particular missing tooth is not replaced, then it may lead to shifting of the adjacent tooth, trauma from occlusion, periodontitis, mobility, etc.

The following are the teeth replacement options:

1. Dental Implant
2. Fixed partial denture
3. Removable denture

Dental Implant

1. Dental implant is the best option for replacing missing teeth as it is the permanent solution.
2. Dental implant not only duplicate crown of the tooth but also root by titanium metal post.
3. Dental implant resembles a natural tooth and lasts longer.
4. The chewing efficiency with dental implant is greater.
5. Dental implant are more stable retentive.
6. Dental Implant provides good esthetic and great comfort.
7. Dental implant prevents bone loss.

Apart from so many advantages, dental implant has some disadvantages. Dental implants are contraindicated in uncontrolled diabetic patients and smokers. It is considerably costly and involved long procedures.

Fixed partial denture (FPD)

A fixed partial denture replaces single or multiple missing teeth. Fixed partial denture takes the support of adjacent teeth or implant and bridges the gap caused by missing teeth. Fixed bridges are resin retentive. It looks and functions like natural teeth. Fixed partial dentures are cheaper than dental implants.  Some disadvantages are, it is difficult to maintain proper cleaning of the dental bridge.  It may cause damage to the adjacent healthy tooth.

Removable denture

Removable denture replaces one, two or complete set of teeth. It can be removed and inserted by the patient’s own wish. Removable dentures are cheaper than dental implants and fixed partial dentures. The removable denture should be cleaned daily with a soft brush and soaked in a cleaning solution or water. Some disadvantages are, practice is required for insertion and removal of a partial denture. Some patients feel uncomfortable in the beginning and will become accustomed to using it.

Jerush dental and Facial Corrective centre is located at Thuckalay, Kanyakumari District, near Azhagiamandapam and Kulasekharam. Palliyadi, Karungal, Marthandam are the nearest places. Please click here to fix an appointment with our Thuckalay Centre. Another unit is functioning at Sashtrinagar, Adyar, Chennai. Please click here to fix an appointment at Chennai centre.

Author: Dr. M. Jovitta, Pediatric /Preventive Dental Health Expert,
Jerush Dental & Facial Corrective Centre
Click to read Dr. Jovitta’s other blogs: “Why flossing is important” “Brushing Techniques” “Bad breath or Halitosis” “Smoking and Oral Health”