Missing teeth can impact more than just your appearance. Gaps in your smile can affect your confidence, but they can also affect your oral health and overall quality of life. Missing teeth create gaps in your smile and so can lead to difficulty chewing, or embarrassment when smiling.
Fortunately, modern dentistry offers various options to replace missing teeth, each with its own benefits. At Dentistry On George, your trusted Brisbane CBD Dentist, we offer a range of solutions, from dental implants, to bridges and dentures, right in the heart of Brisbane CBD.
In this blog, we’ll explore the common methods for tooth replacement, helping you make an informed decision about your dental health.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Replacing missing teeth isn’t just about looks. It can help:
Restore Confidence – A complete smile can make you feel more at ease in social and professional settings.
Improve Function – Replacement teeth allow you to chew and speak properly.
Prevent Tooth Movement – Gaps can cause surrounding teeth to shift, leading to misalignment.
Protect Bone Health – Without stimulation from tooth roots, the jawbone can shrink over time.
Tooth Replacement Options in Brisbane CBD
Dental Implants
What are they?
Dental implants are titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as artificial tooth roots. They are topped with crowns that mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
Pros
- Highly durable and long-lasting.
- Mimics natural tooth structure and function.
- Helps preserve jawbone health.
Cons
- Requires surgery, which may not be suitable for everyone.
- Higher initial cost compared with other options, but may last longer in the long-term
- The crown part may need replacement after several years
- Takes time – between 4-12 months
Conventional Dental Bridges
What are they?
Dental bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth. They “bridge” the gap created by missing teeth.
Pros
- Typically they are quicker to place than implants.
- Restores function and appearance effectively.
- Long lasting with proper care
Cons
- Requires alteration of adjacent healthy teeth.
- May need replacement after several years.
Resin-Bonded Bridges
What are they
Resin-bonded bridges (also known as Maryland bridges) consist of a false tooth with a wing on either side that is bonded to the back of adjacent teeth.
Pros
- Minimally invasive, preserving more natural tooth structure.
- A good option for front teeth where aesthetics are important.
- Typically quicker than traditional dental bridges and dental implants
- Often don’t need to anaesthetize the tooth
Cons
- Not as strong as traditional bridges or implants.
- May not be suitable for back teeth due to chewing forces.
- Are not suitable for everyone e.g. certain occupations and hobbies
- Only good for restoring single teeth
Dentures – Removable Tooth Replacement
What are they?
Dentures are removable appliances that can replace several missing teeth (partial) or a full arch (complete)
Pros
- Non-invasive and relatively affordable.
- Can replace multiple teeth at once.
Cons
- May feel less secure and require adhesives.
- Can affect taste, and speech, and may take time to adjust to.
- Won’t function like normal teeth
- Need to be relined or replaced after a few years
Choosing the Right Tooth Replacement in Brisbane CBD
Deciding on the best method for replacing missing teeth depends on several factors:
- Extent of Tooth Loss: Consider how many teeth are missing and their locations.
- Jawbone Health: A healthy jawbone is essential for implants. This means that those with less jaw bone, or with bone issues may not be suitable. Other options may suit better as they do not require as much support.
- Budget: Costs can vary significantly, so it’s important to consider your financial situation. It’s also important to take into account the ongoing maintenance costs and replacement costs in the future. Nothing will last forever.
- Personal Preferences: Think about your lifestyle and how comfortable you are with surgical procedures versus removable options.
A consultation with our experienced Brisbane CBD dentist will help determine the most suitable approach.
Our Approach at Dentistry on George
The best way to determine the right solution for you is to consult with a dental professional. They can assess your specific situation, discuss your goals, and help you navigate your options.
Here at Dentistry on George, we will start your journey to replacing missing teeth by carrying out a full comprehensive assessment. From there, we can start to create your bespoke plan. If there are other aspects of your teeth or your smile that you don’t like, we may need to carry out a full smile assessment, with a view to doing a smile makeover.
Whether you choose dental implants in Brisbane, bridges, or dentures, our focus is on restoring both function and aesthetics.
Why Choose Dentistry on George for Dental Implants in Brisbane
📍 Convenient Brisbane CBD location
🦷 Advanced technology for precision and comfort
💼 Full treatment from consultation to final prosthesis with our experienced Brisbane City Dentist
💉 In-house intravenous sedation for added comfort
Book Your Dental Implant Consultation
Discover how dental implants in Brisbane CBD can restore your smile and confidence.
📞 Call us on (07) 3211 1155
📅 Book online
📍 Visit us in the heart of the Brisbane CBD
Disclaimer: All surgical procedures carry risks. We recommend seeking a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before proceeding with invasive dental treatments, including dental implant surgery.
References
Here are some references you can consult for more information on replacing missing teeth:
- American Dental Association (ADA)
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR)
- Colgate Oral Care
- American Academy of Periodontology
