Living with missing teeth can be extremely challenging. It compromises basic functions such as chewing, swallowing, and talking. Moreover, it also promotes bone loss and contributes to changes in facial proportions, which further leads to facial sagging.
Missing teeth affect a person functionally, aesthetically, and even mentally. It can lead one to feel self-conscious, which lowers self-esteem and confidence. It can also affect one’s personal, professional, and social interactions. Therefore, it is imperative to replace missing teeth as soon as possible by a board-certified dentist near you.
What Are Your Teeth Replacement Options?
If you are missing a tooth or several teeth, you may be searching for your teeth replacement options. This section will briefly shed light on various options you have for replacing missing teeth.
Removable Dentures
The most common and traditional form of teeth replacement that has existed since the inception of dentistry is dentures.
Dentures are removable teeth replacement options. When removable dentures replace one or a few teeth, it is known as a removable partial denture. When it replaces all the teeth, as in cases of completely edentulous arches, it is called a complete denture.
Problems That Arise with Removable Prostheses
A significant drawback of removable prostheses is the fact that they are removable. Dentures can get dislodged and snap out when you eat or talk. Their bulky nature also tends to alter speech.
Moreover, dentures restrict what you can eat. They can sustain only 10% of the chewing forces compared to natural teeth — which can compromise nutrition. Dentures may also alter taste and require a learning curve for use.
Dentures do not stop bone loss, since the roots of teeth no longer stimulate the jawbone. As a result, it begins to shrink, changing facial proportions and leading to facial sagging and an aged appearance.
Dentures must be replaced every 5–8 years, as even the best ones wear down with use. Over time, jawbone shape changes, requiring frequent adjustments. While dentures seem cheaper initially, they can be costly in the long run.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can replace a single or a few missing teeth but not all teeth. It is a fixed dental prosthesis where false teeth are supported by dental crowns placed on healthy adjacent teeth.
However, the biggest drawback is that bridges require tooth preparation of healthy teeth, which can weaken them over time.
Also, bridges are not permanent and need replacement after a few years to maintain functionality.
Dental Implants
Did you know that the first dental implant was placed in 1965, and the patient lived with it for 40 years until 2005?
Dental implants were introduced to counter the drawbacks of removable prostheses and dental bridges.
A dental implant is a screw-shaped surgical fixture inserted into the jawbone through a small incision. It is left for around 3 months for osseointegration, where it fuses with the bone — acting like a natural tooth root and forming the foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
The unique benefit of implants is that they are permanent and can last a lifetime with proper care.
Replacing a Single Tooth
If you have a single missing tooth, a dental implant solution is ideal.
Dr. Viorel Talpa will first perform a complete oral examination and take x-rays to determine the best implant option.
During your dental implant surgery in Luxembourg, local anesthesia ensures a pain-free experience.
An incision is made to access the bone, a space is created for the implant, and the area is sutured.
The implant is left in place for 3–6 months for osseointegration. Once healed, a dental crown is attached — restoring your smile completely.
If you have multiple missing teeth, multiple implants or a dental implant-supported bridge may be suggested.
Dental Implant-Supported Bridge
Instead of placing one implant per tooth, 2 or 3 implants are placed strategically, and a fixed permanent bridge is attached once healing is complete.
Dental Implant-Supported Dentures (All-on-4)
If you’re missing all your teeth and want a permanent solution, dental implant-supported dentures are ideal.
Known as All-on-4, four implants are placed in the upper and lower jaws. A locking system denture fits securely over them, providing excellent stability.
You can remove the denture for cleaning or sleeping.
Unlike removable dentures, implant-supported dentures restore full chewing forces, allowing you to eat anything comfortably.
Immediate Dental Implants
Don’t wish to wait months for new teeth?
Opt for immediate loading dental implants.
Here, the damaged tooth is extracted, and a dental implant is placed the same day — along with a temporary crown or denture.
After 3–6 months, the final prosthesis is placed.
Contact Dr. Viorel Talpa today to check if you’re a candidate for immediate dental implants.
If bone density is low, additional procedures like sinus lift or bone grafting may be advised to ensure successful placement.
Benefits of Dental Implants
If you’re still wondering why you should choose dental implants over removable prostheses in Luxembourg, here’s why:
-
Permanent teeth replacement solution
-
Feels and functions like natural teeth
-
High aesthetic value — restores confidence
-
Prevents bone resorption and maintains facial structure
-
Reduces wrinkles and gives a youthful appearance
-
Restores chewing strength and speech
-
Easy maintenance — just brush and floss daily
If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, reach out to our dental clinic in Luxembourg.Dr. Viorel Talpa and his team of dental professionals are here to help you achieve a beautiful, healthy, and everlasting smile.
