Options for Replacing Multiple Teeth

When a patient has lost multiple teeth, the effects on aesthetics and function can be more dramatic than when just a single tooth is absent. For patients facing this situation, identifying the best tooth replacement method becomes even more critical. Patients have a number of options for replacing missing teeth. A removable partial denture, a fixed permanent bridge, full dentures or dental implants all may be considered, depending on the specifics of the case. Dental implants are presently the best solution for multiple missing teeth, whether they are small in number or the patient is edentulous. A small number of dental implants may be placed side by side to fill in a short gap in the smile. Alternatively, an oral surgeon can place four to six dental implants to anchor a prosthetic arch of teeth, which is a vast improvement on the conventional denture. Dental implants are superior to the…