Dental implants are one of the most commonly preferred methods for replacing missing teeth due to their long-lasting structure and natural feel. However, they are not the only option for a perfect and safe smile. Patients are looking for alternatives to dental implants due to factors such as general health status, budget, unsuitable gum structure, insufficient bone density, time constraints or avoiding surgical intervention.
As Medical Dental Turkey, we know that each individual has different needs and expectations regarding oral and dental health. For this reason, we offer various alternatives in restorative dental treatments, not limited to dental implants. In this blog post, we will discuss different treatment methods that can be preferred instead of dental implants, their advantages, evaluation criteria and in which cases they can be an ideal option. Our aim is to enable you to make the right decision in order to achieve a healthy and aesthetic smile.
What are the best alternatives to dental implants?
Here are our top 8 alternatives to dental implants that we offer at our dental clinic in Antalya, Turkey;
- Mini dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Implant-supported bridges
- Maryland bridges
- Dentures
- Flipper Tooth (Removable partial denture)
- Root canal treatment
- Gum disease treatment
1. Mini dental implant
Mini dental implants consist of a single-piece titanium screw with a diameter of less than 3 mm and a spherical tip that holds the crown. They have the same structure as traditional implants, but they are smaller.
Pros of mini dental implants
- Mini dental implants do not require a complex surgical procedure like traditional implants. Since this implant is made from a single piece, it eliminates the need for additional surgical procedures. The implant is placed in a single session under local anesthesia.
- Mini implants are minimally invasive. The root of the implant is not as deep as other implants. The dental surgeon makes a small enough incision to open the socket for the implant.
- Since the procedure for placing the implant screw is less invasive, the healing time of mini implants is also faster. Complete healing can be seen within one to two weeks.
- Mini implants eliminate the need for bone grafts and can be applied to patients whose jaw bones are not sufficiently developed.
- They are less costly than traditional implants because they are smaller, have an easier and faster treatment technique, and their surgical procedures are not complicated.
Cons of mini dental implants
- Mini dental implants are not as strong and durable as traditional dental implants. Therefore, more than one mini implant may be required to solve the same problem compared to just one traditional implant.
- They are not suitable for all patients. Especially if you grind or clench your teeth, your teeth can be damaged and worn more easily. Therefore, you may need to do a comprehensive evaluation with your dentist.
- They have a shorter lifespan than traditional implants, and need to be replaced sooner.
Check out our blog post to learn more about mini dental implants.
2. Dental bridges
Dental bridges are an alternative treatment for replacing missing teeth. They can replace one or more missing teeth. A dental bridge involves replacing a missing tooth with a false tooth (pontic) that is attached to the natural teeth on either side of it.
There are three basic types of dental bridges;
- Traditional dental bridge: A traditional dental bridge is the oldest and most commonly used type of bridge to replace missing teeth. It consists of an artificial tooth (pontic) that replaces the lost tooth and is attached to the healthy teeth on either side with a crown. A traditional dental bridge is usually recommended for the loss of one or more teeth.
- Cantilever dental bridge: Similar to traditional bridges, cantilever bridges are attached to a single healthy tooth. These types of bridges are placed on a tooth in the area where there is tooth loss and the gap is filled with a pontic. Cantilever bridges are preferred if you have healthy teeth on only one side of the area where there is tooth loss. Due to their structure, cantilever bridges are not as strong as traditional bridges.
- Maryland bridges: This is explained in section 3 below.
Pros of dental bridges
- The treatment procedure is quicker than implants, with bridges usually requiring only two appointments.
- Bridges are more cost-effective than implants. Also, while insurance usually covers the cost of bridges, implants are less likely to be covered.
- If you are missing multiple teeth in a row, a bridge may be preferable to an implant, depending on your situation and budget. Traditional implants require a separate socket to be drilled in the jaw for each implant, which can be costly and impractical. A bridge can replace several missing teeth.
- Bridges do not require jaw bone density to work, but the implants do need to have sufficient jaw bone density to be stable.
Cons of dental bridges
There are some potential disadvantages you will want to consider when choosing a bridge.
- Bridges do not last as long as dental implants. Most bridges last 5-10 years, while implants can last 15 years or more.
- Healthy teeth are needed to place bridges. In this procedure, the surrounding healthy teeth must be filed down in order for the crowns to be placed, which damages the healthy teeth. Implants are fixed to the jaw and do not affect other teeth.
- Missing teeth can cause neighboring teeth to shift, increasing the risk of cavities and decay; bridges can prevent this, but the risk of decay may be slightly higher than with implants.
3. Maryland bridges
A Maryland bridge offers an aesthetic and minimally invasive solution for individuals who have lost teeth. Instead of damaging neighboring teeth like traditional bridges, this type of bridge fills the missing tooth using metal or porcelain "wings." The dentist places these wings behind the adjacent teeth, thus preserving the natural structure of the teeth. Maryland bridges are generally preferred for front tooth losses because the aesthetic appearance of the front teeth is much more important.
Pros of Maryland bridges
- Minimally invasive, does not damage abutment teeth, only connectors are used.
- Provides a natural appearance, especially when used in front tooth losses.
- More affordable than other bridge types and traditional implants.
- Can be applied in a shorter time than other bridge types. Anesthesia is usually not required for tooth preparation.
Cons of Maryland bridges
- In a Maryland bridge, metal supports behind a natural tooth can cause the supporting teeth to appear darker.
- Used only if one tooth is missing.
- The wings used in the bridge can separate over time due to the biting force applied. Therefore, it may need to be reattached every few years.
- A Maryland bridge can last more than ten years with proper oral and dental care.
4. Implant-supported bridges
An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge, but they are supported by dental implants instead of natural teeth.
Dentists can use implant-supported bridges when you have more than one missing tooth. The implants are fixed directly into your jawbone, creating a solid and stable structure to hold the bridge in place.
Pros of implant-supported bridges
- Implant dental bridge looks like your natural teeth, feels like an onlat and provides functionality.
- Implant dental bridges provide strong stability like a natural tooth root.
- Thanks to its solid structure, it allows you to chew and bite safely without worrying about loosening.
- Since it is fixed in the mouth, there is no slipping or discomfort during speech.
- Modern implant technology mimics the appearance of natural teeth and provides a perfect harmony with the smile.
- Implants prevent bone loss by supporting the jawbone and protect facial features.
- It allows missing teeth to be replaced without damaging healthy teeth.
- Having a full set of teeth helps prevent many dental diseases.
Cons of implant-supported bridges
5. Dentures
Dentures or false teeth are removable intraoral appliances that replace missing teeth. They fit tightly into the gums to eliminate problems caused by missing teeth. There are several different types of dentures: full, partial and implant dentures.
Pros of dentures
- Can improve your smile and appearance.
- Improves chewing and speaking function.
- They can be easily removed and reattached.
- Dental prosthetics fill the gaps that would cause decay, keeping your teeth healthy.
- They are more affordable than traditional implants.
Cons of dentures
- Dentures are not a fixed dental solution and are removable.
- You may feel uncomfortable when you first wear them.
- Regular cleaning and maintenance are required to keep your dentures in place.
- Your facial structure may change with age, and your dentures may need to be adjusted.
- Traditional dentures can slip or come loose when talking or eating.
- After tooth loss, the jawbone can shrink, causing changes in facial shape.
6. Removable partial denture (Flipper Tooth)
A flipper tooth (flipper denture) is a removable partial denture that is used temporarily. These dentures provide temporary aesthetic and functional replacement of missing front teeth until permanent dental treatments such as dental implants or bridges are completed. Usually made of acrylic that resembles your tooth color, flippers are held in place by your existing teeth in the mouth.
Pros of flipper tooth
- Flipper teeth are lightweight, practical to insert and remove and easy to clean.
- They provide aesthetic improvement and functionality for speaking and chewing until a permanent solution is obtained.
- Even if you have missing teeth, they give the appearance of a full smile when installed in your mouth.
- Flipper teeth do not require surgical intervention or extensive dental treatment.
- They are much cheaper than other types of prosthesis.
Cons of flipper tooth
- Flipper teeth are not long-term durable like dental implants or bridges.
- There may be difficulties in pronouncing some words while speaking.
- Although flipper teeth are easy to clean, they require constant cleaning and care to prevent plaque and bacterial accumulation.
- Although they restore eating and chewing function, they may not be as effective as your natural teeth.
- Flipper teeth may cause irritation in the mouth of some people while they are trying to get used to the prosthesis in the initial stage.
7. Alternative preventive treatments to dental implants
Root canal treatment
Root canal treatment is a less invasive and more affordable alternative to dental implants. Root canal treatment is a dental procedure used to treat an infection that has formed in the center of the tooth. During a root canal procedure, the dentist removes infected or inflamed tissue from the inside of the tooth, cleans and disinfects the root canal. The root canal is then filled with a rubber material using an adhesive material to prevent further damage to the tooth and prevent infection. Finally, the damaged tooth is covered with a filling or crown to protect it and restore its function.
Pros of root canal treatment as an alternative to dental implants:
- Root canal treatment is more affordable than implant treatment.
- It allows you to use your natural tooth again while preserving it.
- Root canal is a less invasive and less extensive dental treatment than dental implant surgery.
- It heals faster than implant treatment.
- This treatment looks more aesthetically pleasing and natural in appearance.
Cons of root canal treatment as an alternative to dental implants:
Likewise, there are disadvantages to this procedure:
- Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment are not as durable as dental implants. Since the tooth is hollow, it becomes prone to breakage or cracking.
- Teeth restored with root canal treatment may require more oral and dental care than traditional implants.
- If dental treatment is inadequate, infection may occur, which can lead to even more costly situations in the future.
Gum disease treatment
Periodontal disease is an infection and inflammation that occurs in the gums and jawbone. It usually occurs due to inadequate oral and dental hygiene. Plaque that accumulates on the surface of the teeth is one of the main causes of this disease. Plaque harbors various types of bacteria that can cause infection. Symptoms of gum disease include bad breath, loose teeth, and swollen and bleeding gums.
The main goal of treatment is to protect the gum tissue and jawbone by cleaning under the gums. If not treated in time, gum disease can progress and cause damage to the jawbone and ultimately tooth loss.
Why do I need dental implants?
Dental implants have become increasingly popular due to the permanent and natural solutions they offer. This method, which is more robust and biocompatible than traditional dentures and bridges, prevents tooth loss by integrating with the jawbone and restores natural tooth functions. It allows you to continue your daily life without any anxiety while speaking, chewing and smiling.
Dental implants also help prevent jawbone loss and changes in the facial structure that may occur in the future. It can be used for decades with proper oral and dental care. If you have missing teeth and are looking for a permanent solution, implant treatment will be a suitable option for you.
Determining the most suitable option instead of dental implants depends on your personal needs, general health status and budget. Our experienced dentists at our aesthetic dental clinic in Antalya can evaluate the best treatment method for you together and offer you alternative solutions.
However, when we consider criteria such as functionality, aesthetics and longevity, the most ideal dental treatment we will recommend to you in the long term is usually dental implants. You can contact our Medical Dental Turkey dental clinic to find out if you are suitable for dental implants in Antalya.