Filling the Gap: Modern Options for Replacing Missing Teeth

By Michael B. Rogers, DDS

Losing a tooth affects more than your smile. It can impact how you speak, how you chew, and even the shape of your face. Fortunately, tooth replacement options have come a long way. Today’s solutions focus on comfort, function, and a natural look. Understanding your options can help you make the best choice for your long-term health and confidence.

Dental Implants: A Strong, Lasting Solution Dental implants are considered the closest option to a natural tooth. A small titanium or ceramic post is placed in the jawbone where it fuses with the bone over time. This provides a strong foundation for a crown or bridge. Dental implants help prevent bone loss and can last for many years with proper care. Full-arch options like All-on-4 can even replace an entire set of teeth using just four implants in each arch. These solutions provide stability and help restore normal chewing and speech.

Bridges: A Reliable, Non-Surgical Option A dental bridge fills the space left by one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the healthy teeth on either side. Bridges are a good choice when you want a fixed solution without surgery. They offer a natural appearance and restore function, although they do rely on the strength of neighboring teeth and may not prevent bone loss in the area where the tooth is missing.

Removable Partial Dentures: Flexible and Cost-Effective Removable partial dentures are a more affordable tooth replacement option. They can be taken in and out and are often used as a temporary or long-term solution. Partial dentures can help restore the look of your smile and improve chewing but may not feel as secure as implants or bridges.

Inlays, Onlays, and Crowns: Preserving Damaged Teeth When a tooth is badly damaged but still worth saving, inlays, onlays, or crowns may be the right solution. These treatments help restore the tooth’s shape and strength. Crowns are also commonly used to cover dental implants or support bridges.

Choosing the Best Option for You At Fairlington Dental, we use advanced imaging and personalized planning to help you find the tooth replacement option that best fits your needs. Whether you choose implants, bridges, or partial dentures, our goal is to help you restore comfort, function, and confidence in your smile.