Thanks to modern dental care, the rate of edentulism (tooth loss) is lower than ever, and continues to drop. However, it is still a prevalent condition, usually caused by gum disease, decay, or injury. Whatever the reason, if you have missing teeth, replacing them is important for your health, appearance, and chewing efficiency. Here at Pleasant Dental® in Dolton, IL, we offer several options for filling that gap, to meet your needs and fit your budget.

Your options for replacing missing teeth include implant supported restorations, fixed bridges, and traditional full or partial dentures. The best choice depends on several factors, including your oral health, existing teeth, and bone structure. Each option has unique benefits. In recent years, partial dentures have become less popular, due to the considerable advantages of dental implants. However, they are still an excellent choice in certain instances.


The benefits of partial dentures include:

  • This is the most affordable option in most cases. Implants are considered more economical in the long-term, because they should never need replacing. However, the initial cost of partial dentures is usually lower than implants or bridges. This can be important for patients on a tight budget, especially those without insurance.
  • Partial dentures are not attached to your other teeth or bone in any way, making them a great temporary solution. If you are undecided, partials can be worn until you are ready to proceed with another option. They are often provided to implant patients, while the jawbone is healing and the permanent restoration is being fabricated.
  • Although implants are a great solution for most people, they are not for everyone. If you are in a hurry, prefer to avoid surgery, or have experienced severe bone loss in your jaw, a bridge or partial may be a better choice. A bridge can only be placed if there are existing teeth in the right places to support it. Those supporting teeth need to be reduced and crowned, even if they are healthy. If neither implants nor bridges are right for you, partial dentures can be a great long-term solution.

When you visit Pleasant Dental®, Dr. Dietrich will explain your options, including the advantages and disadvantages of each. He will help you make the best choice for your health, esthetics, and budget. Call (708) 576-1900 and schedule an appointment today.

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