replacement choices

This is often a difficult question, but one which prosthodontists are very experienced in advising about. Some of the general advantages and disadvantages of the three most common options are listed below.

 

Advantages

Disadvantages

Removable partial denture

  • Removable – good access for cleaning
  • Cost effective
  • Reduced comfort
  • Possible clasp display
  • Gaps visible on removal
  • Very minor tooth reduction required

Implant replacement

  • No tooth reduction required
  • Access for cleaning similar to natural teeth
  • Failure can mean just loss of the implant and attached crown or bridge; can mean further tissue loss
  • Requires minor surgery (with associated risk to adjacent anatomical structures)
  • More expensive

Fixed bridgework

  • Good where adjacent teeth would benefit from crowns
  • Requires considerable tooth reduction (irreversible loss of usually all enamel and some dentine of supporting teeth) and associated risk of pulp death.
  • More difficult access for cleaning (risk of gum infection and tooth decay)
  • Failure can mean considerable damage to supporting structures
  • Similar cost to implants