Effective Tooth Replacement Options at Our Ashland Dental Office!

Missing teeth can impact more than just your smile—they can affect your confidence, chewing, speech, and overall oral health. If you’re exploring your options for tooth replacement, you might be wondering how dental implants compare to other solutions like dentures or dental bridges. At Today’s Dentistry, our skilled dentist in Ashland, OR, Dr. James Burneson helps patients in Ashland and nearby areas like Talent, Medford, and Phoenix find the right fit for their lifestyle and dental needs. To learn more about what sets implants apart and why more patients are choosing this long-term solution, contact your Ashland dentist by calling (541) 482-7771.

Real Patients, Real Experiences: Why People Choose Today’s Dentistry

At Today’s Dentistry, we believe that the patient experience matters just as much as the treatment itself. Here’s what our loyal patient Rebecca D., had to say:

• “I went to see Dr. B for a consultation as a new patient at Today’s Dentistry, and was so impressed by the friendliness, patience, knowledge, and caring attitude of the entire staff. What a wonderful place! Now, a couple of months later, I just had my teeth cleaned—the best, most thorough cleaning I’ve ever had. After relocating up here and wondering if I’d ever feel as confident with a new practitioner, I’m convinced that Today’s Dentistry is the group for me!”

From your very first consultation through follow-up cleanings and care, Dr. Burneson and his team are committed to making sure you feel supported, respected, and confident in your treatment decisions—whether that’s implants or another option.

Alternatives for Dental Implants

Dentures

Dentures are a traditional option for replacing missing teeth. They consist of a set of artificial teeth mounted on a removable acrylic base that fits over the gums. Dentures are a good option for patients missing most or all of their teeth, as they can replace an entire arch. They’re also relatively inexpensive and made quickly.

However, dentures can be uncomfortable and may not fit well, causing irritation and soreness. They can also slip and move around in the mouth, making it difficult to eat and speak.

Depending on the patient’s needs, there are multiple denture options available, including:

• Full dentures
• Partial dentures
• Implant-supported dentures

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge is a tooth replacement anchored in place by the teeth on either side of the gap. A bridge is typically made of porcelain or ceramic and is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth. They’re good options for patients who are missing one or a few teeth and have healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Dental bridges are less expensive than dental implants, but they do require healthy teeth to be altered to support the bridge.

Is Doing Nothing an Option?

Doing nothing is technically an option when it comes to missing teeth, but it’s generally not recommended for several reasons:

• Missing teeth can cause several problems for the remaining teeth and the jawbone. When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift to fill the gap, leading to misalignment and bite problems. Additionally, the jawbone can shrink and deteriorate if it’s not supporting a tooth, causing the face to appear sunken and aged.
• Lost teeth can make it difficult to chew and speak properly. This can lead to trouble eating certain foods and speaking clearly, affecting the quality of life.
• Missing teeth can harm self-esteem and social interactions. People may feel self-conscious about their appearance and avoid smiling or speaking in public.

In light of these issues, it’s recommended to consider tooth replacement options such as dental implants to restore function, aesthetics, and improve overall oral health.

Schedule a consultation with our Ashland dental professionals by calling (541) 482-7771 to help you understand which option is best for your specific needs and circumstances.