The Ultimate Guide to Tooth Replacements: Choosing the Best Option for You in Durham, NC
- Local Start Dental
- Feb 10
- 13 min read
Updated: Sep 24
Quick Answer: Tooth replacements restore missing teeth using dental implants, dentures, or bridges. In Durham, NC, Local Start Dental offers removable dentures starting at $566 per arch and implant-supported dentures from $5,900-$10,900 per arch, with sliding scale fees available based on income. Dental implant fees vary depending on income qualification and participation in continuing education courses. Dental implants offer the longest-lasting solution (25+ years) with 95% success rates, while dentures provide affordable immediate restoration.
Losing a tooth isn't just about aesthetics—it can significantly affect your ability to chew, your speech clarity, and even the alignment of your remaining teeth. For Durham residents facing tooth loss, understanding your replacement options is crucial for maintaining both oral health and quality of life. Thankfully, modern dentistry offers multiple solutions to restore your smile, replace missing teeth, and reclaim full functionality.
But with so many tooth replacement options available in the Durham and Triangle area, how do you decide which is best for you? This comprehensive guide will break down the different types of tooth replacements, their pros and cons, and how Durham patients can choose the right option based on their needs, budget, and oral health goals.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth Matters for Durham Residents
When you lose a tooth, it's not just an isolated problem—it triggers a cascade of oral health issues that can impact your overall wellbeing. Missing teeth can lead to a host of complications, including progressive jawbone deterioration, difficulty chewing nutritious foods, speech impediments, and shifts in your natural teeth that disrupt proper alignment. Even a single missing tooth can cause long-term challenges if left untreated.
The Consequences of Untreated Tooth Loss
Jawbone Deterioration Without the stimulation from tooth roots, your jawbone begins to resorb and shrink. This bone loss can lead to a sunken facial appearance and make future tooth replacement more difficult and expensive for Durham patients.
Shifting Teeth Adjacent teeth tend to drift into the gap left by a missing tooth, causing misalignment, bite problems, and potential TMJ issues that may require orthodontic treatment.
Dietary Limitations Missing teeth restrict your ability to eat certain foods, potentially leading to poor nutrition. Durham residents with missing teeth often avoid healthy options like fresh vegetables and lean proteins because they're difficult to chew.
Speech Problems Teeth play a crucial role in pronunciation. Missing front teeth especially can affect speech clarity, impacting professional and social interactions.
Decreased Confidence The psychological impact of missing teeth shouldn't be underestimated. Many Durham patients report avoiding social situations, smiling less, and experiencing diminished self-esteem.
Replacing missing teeth restores both functionality and aesthetics, giving you the confidence to smile, eat, and speak freely. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or multiple missing teeth, Local Start Dental offers various options to suit different needs and budgets for Triangle area residents.
What Are Tooth Replacements?
Tooth replacements refer to artificial substitutes that take the place of natural teeth lost due to injury, tooth decay, gum disease, periodontal disease, or other factors. They are designed to mimic both the function and appearance of natural teeth, ensuring that Durham patients can maintain their dental health and quality of life.
Benefits of Tooth Replacements
Restore Full Functionality: Regain the ability to chew all foods and speak clearly
Prevent Dental Shifts: Keep adjacent teeth from drifting into gaps
Preserve Jawbone Health: Maintain bone density through proper stimulation
Enhance Smile Aesthetics: Restore confidence with natural-looking replacement teeth
Improve Overall Health: Enable proper nutrition through better chewing function
Prevent Facial Changes: Maintain natural facial structure and appearance
For Durham and Triangle area residents, Local Start Dental provides comprehensive tooth replacement solutions tailored to individual needs, budgets, and oral health conditions.
Dental Implants: The Gold Standard for Tooth Replacements in Durham
Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard solution for replacing teeth. They involve placing a titanium post surgically into the jawbone (a process called implant placement), which acts as an artificial root for the replacement teeth. A crown, bridge, or denture is then attached to the implant for a permanent, natural look and feel.
How Dental Implants Work
The implant procedure involves several phases:
Surgical Placement: A titanium post is inserted into the jawbone
Osseointegration: The implant fuses with the bone over 3-6 months
Abutment Attachment: A connector piece is placed on the healed implant
Crown Placement: A custom crown is attached to complete the restoration
Pros of Dental Implants for Durham Patients
Longevity and Durability Dental implants can last 25-30 years or even a lifetime with proper care, making them the most cost-effective long-term solution for Durham residents.
Natural Appearance and Function Implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth. You can eat all your favorite Durham foods without restriction—from Carolina barbecue to fresh apples from the farmer's market.
Bone Preservation Unlike other tooth replacement options, implant treatments prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone just like natural tooth roots, preserving facial structure.
No Impact on Adjacent Teeth Implants are self-supporting and don't require modification of healthy neighboring teeth, unlike bridges.
Superior Stability Implants never slip or move, providing complete confidence during eating, speaking, and social interactions.
Cons of Dental Implants
Higher Upfront Investment Dental implant fees vary depending on income qualification and participation in continuing education courses at Local Start Dental. While higher than other initial options, our sliding scale program can significantly reduce costs for qualifying Durham families.
Surgical Procedure Required Implant treatment requires surgery and a healing period of several months, though most Durham patients report the process is more comfortable than expected.
Candidacy Requirements May not be suitable for individuals with insufficient bone density or certain medical conditions, though bone grafting can often address density issues.
Time Investment The complete process takes 4-8 months from start to finish, though temporary teeth are provided throughout.
Want to learn if dental implants are right for you? Contact Local Start Dental's experienced prosthodontists at 919.569.5533 to discuss pricing based on your income qualification and learn about our continuing education program benefits.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth in Durham, NC
Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are an affordable and non-invasive option for replacing multiple teeth within the same arch. They consist of artificial replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored base that clips to your natural teeth.
When Partial Dentures Are Ideal:
Multiple missing teeth in different areas of the mouth
Budget constraints make implants unfeasible initially
Patients want a non-surgical solution
Temporary solution while planning for implants
Pros of Removable Partial Dentures:
Budget-Friendly: At Local Start Dental, costs range from $566-$1,375 per arch
Non-Invasive: No surgery required, making them accessible to more Durham patients
Easy Maintenance: Simple to remove and clean thoroughly
Quick Solution: Can be completed in 2-3 weeks
Adjustable: Can be modified as your mouth changes
Cons of Removable Partial Dentures:
Less Comfortable: May feel bulky initially and require an adjustment period
Stability Issues: Can move slightly during eating or speaking
Regular Adjustments: Require periodic modifications as gums and bone change
Don't Prevent Bone Loss: No stimulation to preserve jawbone
Potential for Damage: Can put stress on anchor teeth over time
Complete Dentures (Full Dentures)
For Durham individuals missing all of their teeth in one or both arches, full dentures are a proven solution. These removable prosthetics replace an entire arch of teeth and rest on the gums.
Types of Complete Dentures:
Conventional Dentures: Created after teeth removal and gum healing (8-12 weeks)
Immediate Dentures: Placed immediately after tooth extraction
Implant-Supported Dentures: Secured to implants for superior stability
Pros of Full Dentures:
Affordability: $566-$1,375 per arch at Local Start Dental makes full mouth restoration accessible
Complete Restoration: Replace all missing teeth in one treatment
Customizable Appearance: Designed to complement your facial features
Non-Surgical Option: Traditional dentures require no surgery
Cons of Full Dentures:
Potential Instability: Can slip or shift while eating or speaking
Adhesive Dependence: May require daily adhesives for stability
Eating Limitations: Reduced chewing power (25-30% of natural bite force)
Accelerates Bone Loss: No jawbone stimulation leads to progressive changes
Regular Replacement: Need replacement every 5-7 years as mouth changes
Durham Solution: Many patients at Local Start Dental combine the affordability of dentures with the stability of implants through implant-supported dentures ($5,900-$10,900 per arch), offering the best of both worlds.
Fixed Bridges
Fixed dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by using neighboring natural teeth as anchors. Crowns are placed on adjacent teeth to support an artificial tooth (pontic) that fills the gap.
Types of Bridges:
Traditional Bridge: Uses crowns on both adjacent teeth
Cantilever Bridge: Supported by a crown on only one side
Maryland Bridge: Uses metal or porcelain framework bonded to adjacent teeth
Pros of Fixed Bridges:
No Surgery Required: Less invasive than implants
Quick Results: Completed in 2-3 weeks for Durham patients
Natural Appearance: Matches surrounding teeth seamlessly
Restore Function: Return to normal eating and speaking
Moderate Cost: More affordable than implants initially
Cons of Fixed Bridges:
Requires Tooth Modification: Healthy adjacent natural teeth must be ground down
Doesn't Prevent Bone Loss: No stimulation under the bridge
Limited Lifespan: Typically last 10-15 years before replacement needed
Potential for Complications: Anchor teeth can develop decay or damage
Cleaning Challenges: Special flossing tools needed for maintenance
Implant-Supported Bridges
For Durham patients wanting the permanence of a bridge without compromising healthy teeth, implant-supported bridges use dental implants as anchors instead of natural teeth.
Advantages Over Traditional Bridges:
Preserve healthy adjacent teeth
Stimulate jawbone to prevent bone loss
Longer lifespan (20-30+ years)
More stable and comfortable
Cost and Accessibility for Durham Residents
Dental implants and bridges are often seen as intimidating options for many Durham families, primarily because of their higher costs. However, there are ways to make these essential dental treatments more affordable and accessible in the Triangle area.
Local Start Dental's Nonprofit Mission
As Durham's nonprofit dental clinic, Local Start Dental is dedicated to helping patients get the care they need without breaking the bank. We offer several financial assistance options:
Sliding Scale Pricing Our sliding scale adjusts the cost of treatment based on a patient's income level, making restorative dental care a reality for Durham residents who might otherwise be unable to afford it.
Flexible Financing Options
CareCredit: Financing options available for treatment costs
Proceed Finance: Alternative financing for approved applicants
Insurance Assistance While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for our patients.
NC Medicaid Acceptance We accept NC Medicaid for necessary tooth extractions and some preliminary procedures.
Long-Term Value Comparison for Durham Patients
When comparing tooth replacement options, consider the total cost over time:
Traditional Dentures (20-year timeline):
Initial: $1,375
Replacement every 6 years: $1,375 x 3 = $4,125
Adhesives: $400/year x 20 = $8,000
Total: $13,500+
Single Tooth Implant:
Fees vary depending on income qualification and participation in continuing education courses
Contact Local Start Dental at 919.569.5533 for personalized pricing
How to Get Replacement Teeth in 6 Steps: Durham Patient Guide
Finding the right tooth replacement option doesn't have to be overwhelming for Triangle area residents. Follow these six steps to determine the best tooth replacement option for you:
Step 1: Assess Your Needs
Consider the scope of tooth loss:
Single Tooth: Dental implant or bridge
Multiple Teeth in Different Areas: Partial denture or multiple implants
Full Arch: Complete denture or implant-supported denture
Multiple Arches: Full dentures or All-on-4 implant solution
Step 2: Evaluate Your Oral Health
At Local Start Dental, our prosthodontists will examine:
Gum health and periodontal status
Jawbone density and quality
Condition of remaining natural teeth
Overall oral hygiene
Any existing dental work
This comprehensive evaluation determines which tooth replacement options are suitable for your specific situation.
Step 3: Consider Your Budget
Be realistic about your financial situation:
Immediate Budget: Removable partial dentures may be most feasible
Long-Term Investment: Dental implants offer best value over time
Middle Ground: Implant-supported dentures balance cost and benefit
Ask about Local Start Dental's sliding scale program and financing options to make quality care affordable.
Step 4: Discuss Aesthetics and Function
Consider what matters most to you:
Maximum Natural Appearance: Dental implants or high-quality dentures
Eating Capability: Implants provide best chewing function
Speech Clarity: Fixed options typically better than removable
Confidence Level: Stable solutions prevent social anxiety
Step 5: Weigh Maintenance Requirements
Different options require different levels of upkeep:
Implants: Brush and floss like natural teeth, regular checkups
Dentures: Daily removal, cleaning, soaking; periodic adjustments
Bridges: Normal brushing plus special flossing techniques
Choose a maintenance routine you're willing to commit to for Durham's active lifestyle.
Step 6: Consult with Specialists
At Local Start Dental, our board-certified prosthodontists—specialists in tooth replacement and restoration—can guide you through available options. Unlike general dentists, prosthodontists have 3 additional years of specialized training in complex tooth replacement cases.
Schedule your consultation by calling 919.569.5533 or
Special Considerations for Durham Patients
Tooth Replacement After Gum Disease
Patients with periodontal disease history need additional consideration. Gum disease must be treated and controlled before proceeding with most tooth replacement options. Local Start Dental provides comprehensive periodontal therapy to prepare Durham patients for successful tooth replacement.
Tooth Replacement for Seniors
Durham's senior population has unique needs:
Bone density considerations (common with aging)
Medical conditions affecting healing
Fixed income budgetary concerns
Desire for simplified maintenance
Local Start Dental specializes in geriatric dentistry, offering solutions tailored to seniors' needs and circumstances.
Immediate Tooth Replacement Options
For Durham patients concerned about appearance during treatment:
Immediate Dentures: Placed same day as extractions
Temporary Partials: Wear during implant healing
Flipper: Temporary single tooth replacement
You never have to be without teeth during your treatment at Local Start Dental.
Advanced Tooth Replacement Solutions at Local Start Dental
All-on-4 Dental Implants
For Durham patients missing most or all teeth, All-on-4 implants provide full arch restoration using just four strategically placed implants per arch. This innovative solution offers:
Permanent, non-removable teeth
Often avoid need for bone grafting
Same-day temporary teeth possible
Natural appearance and full function
Snap-On Dentures
Snap-on dentures combine affordability with improved stability. These removable dentures attach securely to 2-4 implants, providing excellent retention while maintaining easy removal for cleaning—ideal for Durham patients wanting better stability than traditional dentures without the cost of fixed implants.
Computer-Guided Implant Placement
Local Start Dental uses advanced 3D imaging and computer planning for precise implant placement, improving success rates and reducing healing times for Triangle area patients.
Why Durham Residents Choose Local Start Dental for Tooth Replacements
Prosthodontic Specialization
Our team includes board-certified prosthodontists—specialists in tooth replacement with advanced training beyond dental school. This expertise ensures Durham patients receive the highest level of care for complex restorative cases.
Comprehensive Care Under One Roof
From tooth extraction to final restoration, all services are provided at our convenient Jackson Street location in Durham. No referrals to multiple specialists—everything you need is here.
Student Training Program Benefits
Our partnership with dental schools means care from highly motivated students under direct prosthodontist supervision. This model allows premium care at reduced costs while ensuring thorough, careful treatment.
Serving the Triangle Community
While located in Durham, we welcome patients from Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Cary, and surrounding communities. Our central location with easy access makes us the preferred choice for Triangle residents seeking affordable, high-quality tooth replacement care.
Proven Track Record
With thousands of successful tooth replacements completed, Durham patients trust Local Start Dental for life-changing restorative treatments that restore both function and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tooth Replacements
What is the best option for teeth replacement?
Dental implants are often considered the best option because they are durable, appear natural, prevent bone loss, and can last a lifetime with proper care. However, the right choice depends on your specific needs, oral health, and budget. Durham patients with multiple missing teeth might find implant-supported dentures offer the best balance of stability and affordability.
How much does it cost to replace teeth in Durham?
Costs vary by treatment at Local Start Dental:
Removable dentures: $566-$1,375 per arch
Single tooth implant: Fee varies
Implant-supported dentures: $5,900-$10,900 per arch Our sliding scale program can significantly reduce these costs for qualifying Durham families.
What is the cheapest way to replace teeth?
Removable partial dentures ($566-$1,375 at Local Start Dental) are usually the most affordable option for multiple missing teeth. However, consider long-term costs—dentures require replacement every 5-7 years, while implants can last decades.
Can a single tooth be replaced?
Yes, a single tooth can be replaced with a dental implant, which provides a permanent and natural-looking solution. Alternatively, a fixed bridge can replace a single tooth but requires modification of adjacent teeth.
Is it painful to have a tooth replaced?
Most tooth replacement procedures are relatively pain-free. Dental implant surgery is performed under local anesthesia, and any discomfort is managed with appropriate pain medication. Most Durham patients report the procedure is more comfortable than expected.
What is the best teeth replacement option for gum disease patients?
Patients with gum disease history may need periodontal treatment before considering options like dental implants. Once gum health is restored, most patients become excellent candidates. Removable partial dentures might serve as a temporary solution during gum disease treatment.
How long do tooth replacements last?
Lifespan varies by option:
Dental implants: 25-30+ years or lifetime
Dentures: 5-7 years before replacement
Bridges: 10-15 years
Implant-supported dentures: 20-30+ years Proper care and regular checkups at Local Start Dental maximize longevity for all options.
Can I eat normally with tooth replacements?
Eating ability depends on the replacement type:
Implants: 100% normal eating, all foods
Implant-supported dentures: 70-80% normal, most foods
Traditional dentures: 25-30%, mainly soft foods
Bridges: 70-80% normal, most foods
Will my insurance cover tooth replacement?
Many insurance plans don't cover implants, however coverage is improving. While we do not work with private dental insurance directly such as Humana, BCBS, or Aetna, we can provide necessary records for claim submission. In combination with our sliding scale, this can result in maximized savings for Durham patients.
Take the Next Step Toward Restoring Your Durham Smile
Replacing missing teeth is essential for your oral health, confidence, and quality of life. Whether you opt for dental implants, removable partial dentures, bridges, or another solution, the key is finding what works best for your unique situation and budget.
At Local Start Dental, our nonprofit mission ensures that financial barriers don't prevent Durham and Triangle area residents from receiving the tooth replacement care they need. Our sliding scale program, flexible financing options, and prosthodontic expertise make quality restorative dentistry accessible to more families.
Schedule Your Tooth Replacement Consultation Today
Don't let missing teeth compromise your health, function, or confidence any longer. Our experienced prosthodontists will evaluate your specific situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that fits both your needs and budget.
Ready to restore your smile with the best tooth replacement option for you?
Call Local Start Dental today at 919.569.5533 or contact us online for expert guidance and personalized recommendations on choosing the ideal tooth replacement solution for your needs.
Get professional guidance from Durham's trusted nonprofit dental clinic. Contact Local Start Dental today at 919.569.5533 or reach out online to take the first step toward a fully restored smile.
Local Start Dental - Your Partner in Oral Health Excellence Serving Durham, Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and the Triangle Area 919.569.5533 | 370 Jackson Street, Durham, NC 27701
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Every patient's situation is unique, and treatment recommendations may vary based on individual circumstances, medical history, oral health conditions, and bone density.
Success rates, healing times, and costs mentioned are general estimates and may differ for individual patients. Only a qualified dental professional can determine the most appropriate tooth replacement option for you after a thorough examination and consultation.
The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any dental condition. Always seek the advice of qualified healthcare providers, including prosthodontists and oral surgeons, regarding any questions you may have about tooth replacement treatments.
Local Start Dental's fee schedules, financing options, and sliding scale programs are subject to change and have qualification requirements. Contact our office directly for current pricing and eligibility information.
By reading this article, you acknowledge that Local Start Dental is not liable for any decisions made based on the information provided herein. Individual results may vary, and there are risks associated with any dental procedure, including surgical tooth replacement procedures.
