The modern practice of dentistry is primarily focused on prevention, and the newly emerging links between dental health and total body health bear out this model. We should be doing everything possible to keep our mouths and bodies healthy, so we never need to have any teeth removed.
However, when missing teeth need to be replaced, implants should now be the frontline therapy. Dentures and bridges, less effective therapies, should be considered when an implant solution is not possible.
The video below is an excellent review of current treatment options in Implant Dentistry.