For many people, avoiding teeth replacement seems like the simplest and most cost-effective choice.
It’s understandable—after all, living without replacement teeth seems like it’ll save you money, and reduce the need for maintenance. Why fork out to undergo dental procedures if the missing tooth isn’t bothering you, or it’s barely visible?
Reality is, leaving those gaps unfilled can lead to bigger—and often more expensive—issues down the road. However, while replacing the missing tooth (or teeth) is usually the best choice for oral health, there are a few potential benefits to going without, depending on your situation.
The most obvious is saving money—teeth replacement cost is a real consideration, so avoiding implants, bridges, and dentures might seem like a cost-effective choice in the short term.
Some people also prefer to avoid more extensive dental treatment options due to anxiety, health concerns, or personal preference. There’s also the factor of comfort—while permanent teeth replacement works for many, some find them uncomfortable and would rather adjust to missing teeth. And in certain cases, if the gap isn’t visible and doesn’t affect chewing or speech, the impact on daily life may be minimal.
But it’s important to note that these benefits are often outweighed by the long-term oral health consequences.
Choosing not to replace missing teeth might not seem like a big deal at first, but over time, it can lead to some unexpected changes.
Here’s what you might experience if those gaps go unfilled:
Your teeth do more than just chew—they help you speak clearly too! Missing front teeth, in particular, can make it tricky to pronounce certain sounds, like “F” or “V,” which might leave you feeling self-conscious when chatting with others.
Your teeth, tongue, and jaw muscles all work together to help you enjoy your favourite foods. Missing teeth can make chewing harder, especially when it comes to crunchy, tough, or chewy foods. You might even start favouring one side of your mouth, which can lead to jaw strain and uneven wear on your remaining teeth! At our Myrtleford dental practice, we’ve even seen patients with reduced protein intake due to missing teeth, resulting in nutritional issues. Some patients have even reported indigestion due to poor chewing ability.
It’s not just about the missing tooth itself—your whole face can change over time. The way you chew affects your jaw and facial muscles and this may lead to sunken cheeks, facial asymmetry, and an overall older appearance. Plus, any remaining teeth surrounding the missing tooth or teeth can move or erupt more, leading to gaps where food particles and bacteria can get stuck and increase your risk of decay. If left untreated, decay can lead to further tooth loss.
One study published in 2023 showed an increase in cognitive decline, as well as a rise in all-cause mortality rate in adults over 45 years with missing teeth. Similarly, a 2021 study found an increased risk of dementia among those with missing teeth.
Teeth replacements come with a ton of perks that can keep you smiling—literally!
Not only do they help you chew comfortably and enjoy your favourite foods, but they also keep your other teeth in place, preventing any unwanted shifting. Plus, they can make speech clearer and give your confidence a big boost.
Whether you go for fixed or removable teeth replacement options, restoring your smile means better dental health, more comfort, and a happier you!
And it all starts with discussing tooth loss with your dentist to explore options to replace missing teeth that fit your expectations and budget.
Here, we guide you step-by-step through the benefits and drawbacks of replacing lost teeth options at Great Alpine Dental.
Before we dig into those options to replace missing teeth — let’s get one thing sorted: there are two main types to choose from—fixed and removable.
Here’s a quick, bite-sized breakdown.
Fixed teeth replacements use a titanium screw to keep your false teeth in your mouth 24/7 and can only be removed by your dentist.
Many people love implant supported options (like single dental implants or All-on-4) because they feel and function just like natural teeth. No need to take them out for cleaning or sleeping; they’re always there, giving you a strong, secure smile!
“I want all my teeth removed and replaced with dentures!” — we hear this a lot!
Options like removable dentures (including removable partial dentures) or snap-on overdentures (removable dentures that are attached to implants) offer flexibility, easy cleaning, and a lower teeth replacement price restore your smile. Plus, you can pop them out whenever you want!
There are several teeth replacement options to suit different needs and lifestyles. From dentures, the most common solution, to dental implants, to a combination of treatments— each choice comes with its own considerations.
The ultimate long-term solution! If you haven’t suffered too much bone loss, implants are strong, natural-looking, and mimic real tooth roots. They’re durable, make it easy to maintain good oral hygiene, and feel just like natural teeth.
Full mouth teeth replacement options like All-on-4 have a high success rate, and a single dental implant procedure is very straightforward.
A fixed, reliable option that seamlessly fills gaps by anchoring to nearby teeth. They restore function, look natural, and don’t require surgery, making them a great middle-ground choice.
Dentures are the most common teeth replacement option. Traditional and partial dentures stay in place with suction or adhesives, while overdentures ‘snap on’ for extra stability. They’re easy to remove, clean, and adjust over time, making them a convenient solution for many.
If you’re considering All-on-4, note that full teeth replacement cost in Australia varies from dentist to dentist, and is impacted by the need for additional treatments like a bone graft.
With years of specialised training and a passion for excellence, Dr. Amit is a trusted teeth replacement dentist. Holding a Bachelor of Dental Surgery and a Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Therapy from the European Association of Osseointegration, he continues to refine his skills at the prestigious Kois Center in the U.S.
At Great Alpine Dental, our All-on-4 cost starts at $18,850 per jaw. We offer flexible ways to pay, including the potential to access your Super early.
Using only the highest quality materials and cutting-edge techniques, Dr. Amit ensures durable, natural-looking results that stand the test of time. When it comes to restoring your smile, experience and quality make all the difference!
Download our guide below for more information on all our teeth replacement options, our full price ranges and payment options.
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