Here’s a bit of good news for people with missing teeth: advances in modern dentistry have opened new and better possibilities for replacing teeth with long-lasting, natural-looking restorations.
Missing teeth are one of the dental concerns that our office treats every day. Dr. Stephen Hoard is one of the most sought-after restorative dentists in North Carolina for the replacement of missing teeth. Dr. Hoard works with a team of specialists to ensure that patients’ outcomes look and feel great.
Which Treatment is Best for Replacing Missing Teeth?
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for anything in dentistry, especially missing teeth. More treatment options mean better choices for patients to find the solution that fits their health needs, aesthetic goals, and budget.
The primary options for replacing missing teeth are:
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is an affordable treatment option for replacing missing teeth. The bridge can be either removable, sometimes called a flipper tooth, or fixed. A fixed bridge is anchored either with dental crowns and/or dental implants.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a more permanent solution for missing teeth. The implant actually replaces the root of the tooth, becoming fully integrated with the bone. While dental implants to require a more significant investment initially, they have increased longevity compared to a dental bridge and require less care and maintenance.
It is important to note that not all patients will qualify for dental implants. The location of the missing tooth, as well as the patient’s overall health and bone structure, will be evaluated before the dentist recommends treatment.
Dentures
A denture is used when a person is missing all of their upper or lower teeth. Advances in materials make today’s cosmetic dentures more natural-looking and comfortable than previous restorations.
All-on-four Dental Implants
All-on-Four is an innovative dental implant solution for patients with missing teeth. Using as few as four dental implants, Dr. Hoard can attach an overdenture for a stable, long-lasting restoration. The improvement in the fit, look, and stability helps improve the quality of life and long-term dental health for edentulous patients.
Patient Review
What to Expect: Your Journey to a Complete Smile
Step 1: Comprehensive Consultation
Your journey begins with a conversation. Dr. Stephen or Dr. Nicole will sit with you to understand:
- What’s bothering you about your smile?
- How long have you been missing teeth?
- What are your goals and expectations?
- Do you have any health concerns that might affect treatment?
They’ll perform a thorough examination, including digital X-rays and, if needed, 3D imaging to evaluate your bone structure. This complete picture allows them to recommend options that truly fit your unique situation.
Step 2: Treatment Planning
Based on everything they’ve learned, they’ll present your options clearly without confusing dental jargon. They’ll explain:
- Which treatments could work for you
- The pros and cons of each option
- What the timeline looks like
- What investment to expect
You’ll never feel pressured. The goal is to help you make an informed decision.
Step 3: Preparation or Surgery
Depending on your chosen treatment, this phase might involve:
- Preparing adjacent teeth for a bridge
- Placing dental implants
- Extracting any remaining non-restorable teeth
- Taking impressions for your new restorations
We offer sedation options to keep you comfortable throughout any procedures.
Step 4: Healing and Integration
For implant treatments, this is the waiting period while your bone grows around the implants. It typically takes 3-6 months. During this time, you may wear temporary restorations so you’re never without teeth.
Step 5: Your New Smile
Once healing is complete, your permanent restoration is placed. Dr. Hoard and his team will ensure it fits perfectly, looks natural, and feels comfortable.
Step 6: Long-Term Care
Your new smile is an investment. We’ll provide guidance on caring for it and schedule regular checkups to keep everything in top shape.
Missing Teeth FAQs
Does insurance cover tooth replacement?
Coverage varies by plan. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of bridges and dentures. Implant coverage depends on your specific policy. Our front office team will verify your benefits and explain your coverage before you commit to anything.
Is tooth replacement painful?
We prioritize your comfort at every step. For surgical procedures like implants, we use local anesthesia and offer sedation options. Most patients report that the experience is far more comfortable than they expected. Any post-procedure discomfort is typically manageable with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication.
Can I get implants if I’ve been told I don’t have enough bone?
Possibly. Techniques like bone grafting can rebuild lost bone. The All-on-4 technique was specifically designed to work with less bone by placing implants at angles that avoid thin areas. Dr. Hoard will evaluate your situation and discuss all possibilities.
I’ve worn dentures for years. Is it too late for implants?
Not at all. Many denture wearers are excellent candidates for implant-supported options. In fact, they’re often the most grateful patients. They’re finally free from slipping, adhesives, and dietary restrictions.
Your Smile Is Worth Completing
Living with missing teeth is harder than it looks. The physical challenges, the emotional toll, and the worry about your health all add up. But you don’t have to live that way anymore.
Modern dentistry offers solutions that can give you back your smile, your confidence, and your quality of life. And right here in New Bern, the Hoard family has spent over three decades helping patients just like you take that step.
Dr. Stephen’s 31+ years of experience, his faculty role at the Dawson Academy, and his recognition as a top teacher of other dentists mean you’re in exceptionally capable hands. Dr. Nicole’s fresh perspective, advanced training, and deep commitment to continuing the family legacy add another layer of compassionate care.
When you choose New Bern Smiles, you’re not just getting a tooth replacement. You’re getting the wisdom of three generations, the advanced training of the Dawson Academy, and the genuine care of a family practice that treats you like family.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, we’re here to help you find the solution that fits your health, your goals, and your budget.
Call our New Bern office at (252) 507-0373 or request an appointment online.
We proudly serve families from New Bern, Havelock, Trent Woods, River Bend, Vanceboro, Morehead City, and throughout Craven County. Your complete, confident smile is waiting.
