What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?
Missing teeth can affect far more than your smile. They can make it harder to chew comfortably, change the way you speak, and even cause nearby teeth to shift over time. The good news is that modern dentistry offers strong, natural-looking solutions that can restore both function and confidence. If you’re exploring your options, our dentists in Bellevue, WA, can help you choose a plan that fits your goals while keeping care as minimally invasive as possible.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth may drift into the open space. This can throw off your bite, create uneven wear, and make cleaning harder. Over time, missing teeth can also contribute to jawbone loss in that area, which may affect the shape of your smile and facial support.
isn’t just cosmetic. It’s an important step for long-term oral health and comfort.
Option 1: Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most advanced tooth replacement options available today. An implant is a small post placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it heals, a custom crown is attached to the implant, creating a replacement tooth that looks and functions like a natural one.
Why Implants Are a Minimally Invasive Favorite
Many people assume implants are always a major procedure, but for the right candidates, implant treatment can actually be a conservative, long-term solution. Unlike some alternatives, dental implant treatment doesn’t require reshaping the healthy teeth next to the missing space. That means your surrounding natural teeth can remain intact.
Dental implants are often ideal for replacing a single missing tooth, but they can also be used in cases where multiple teeth are missing.
Option 2: Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by “bridging” the gap. A traditional bridge is supported by the teeth on either side of the missing space. Those teeth are prepared and fitted with crowns, and a replacement tooth (or teeth) is connected between them.
When Bridges Are a Good Option
Dental bridges are often a great choice for patients who want a fixed solution but prefer to avoid surgical treatment. Bridges can restore chewing ability, improve speech, and prevent nearby teeth from shifting.
Since bridges rely on the adjacent teeth for support, your dentist will carefully evaluate whether those teeth are strong enough and healthy enough to serve as anchors. In a minimally invasive practice, the goal is always to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible while still delivering a stable, long-lasting result.
Option 3: Implant-Supported Dentures
If you’re missing an entire arch of teeth, implant-supported dentures may be an excellent option. Unlike traditional removable dentures that rest on the gums, implant-supported dentures attach to dental implants for a more secure fit.
Benefits of Implant-Supported Dentures
Implant-supported dentures may require fewer implants than you’d expect, making them a practical solution for patients who want long-term security without replacing every missing tooth with a separate implant.
This option is especially popular because it can offer:
- Improved comfort and stability
- Better chewing strength
- Less slipping or movement
- A more confident, natural feel
Choosing the Most Conservative Option for Your Needs
The “best” tooth replacement option depends on how many teeth you’re missing, the health of your gums and jawbone, and your long-term goals. A minimally invasive approach focuses on choosing the solution that restores your smile while preserving healthy tooth structure and supporting long-term oral health.
Whether you’re considering dental implants, implant-supported dentures, or a dental bridge, a personalized consultation is the best way to explore what’s possible.
Schedule a Consultation for Tooth Replacement
If you’re ready to restore your smile with a plan built around comfort, function, and conservative care, schedule a visit with our dentists in Bellevue, WA, to discuss your tooth replacement options. Call Minimally Invasive Dental Aesthetics at (425) 454-7690 or request an appointment online to get started.
