If you’re considering replacing one or more missing teeth with dental implants, you may be wondering exactly how many restorations you should get. Is it better to replace each tooth individually? Should you opt for a larger prosthetic with less posts? Here’s a general guide to how many dental implants you might need based on how many teeth you’re replacing. For more information about the best solution to your tooth loss, speak to your dentist, as individual treatments will vary.
Determining How Many Dental Implants You Will Need
Dental implants refer to the titanium posts that are permanently inserted into your jawbone, not to the crowns (teeth) that sit on top. When determining how many you’ll need, you’ll need to consider several factors, including how many teeth you’re missing and where they’re located within your mouth.
Replacing One or More Teeth
If you’re missing one or more teeth that are not in consecutive order, one popular option is individual, single crown dental implants. With these, you can replace only what you need in isolated spaces throughout your mouth. Be aware that this option can be more expensive if you are replacing many consecutive teeth at once. If cost is a factor, you may want to consider implant bridges or implant dentures if you qualify.
Replacing Multiple, Consecutive Teeth
If you’re missing anywhere from two to 14 consecutive teeth, an implant bridge may be an ideal solution for you. These prosthetics secure to your jaw with up to eight implants and allow you to replace multiple teeth in a row without needing to restore each one individually. This benefit can be much more cost effective, however, because there will be empty spaces in your jaw, you may still experience some jawbone deterioration in those spots.
Replacing an Entire Arch
If you need to replace an entire arch of teeth, an implant denture can do this by using just a few implants (typically between four and eight). This solution will depend on the condition of your jawbones, but like bridges you will still run the risk of jawbone deterioration in the empty spots.
Remember, the number of dental implants you’ll need and what type of crowns will work best depends on your individual mouth. Keep in mind that you may also require a bone graft or gum disease treatment prior to your implantation procedure, but your dentist will go over your options at your consultation. To learn more about whether dental implants are right for you, speak to your dentist today!
About Our Practice
At BGH Dental, our team of skilled, compassionate dentists are proud to help Greenfield area patients restore their beautiful smiles with the help of dental implants. We understand that this solution is a big decision, and we’re happy to assist you with a treatment plan that achieves your smile goals all the while best fitting your budget. If you’re interested in learning more about dental implants, please schedule a consultation by visiting our website or calling us today at 413-772-0842.