Missing teeth can lead to alignment issues and bone loss, so tooth replacement is necessary. If you have any missing teeth, you have a variety of replacement options, but four stand out. Learn about the most popular options and pick the one that makes sense for you.
Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option, especially when people only have to replace a single tooth. Dentists surgically place the implant in the jaw, and it acts as a root. The jaw bone grows around the implant, and it feels like a natural tooth. Implants are low-maintenance and can last for decades.
Getting the implant is just part of the procedure. Once in place, the dentist will attach a bridge, crown or dentures to the implant. Crowns are a common choice and provide the look and feel of natural teeth.
People who need to replace two or more missing teeth often select a fixed bridge. As the name suggests, this bridges the gap caused by missing teeth. Dentists use bond or cement to hold the bridge in place, so it is a permanent solution.
The dentist has to prepare the teeth that sit on either side of the gap. Then, an impression is taken, and the bridge is made. The bridge is placed and topped with a pontic and a crown. The pontic replaces the missing tooth, and the crown is placed on top of it.
Some people prefer a removable partial denture since it can be removed and cleaned at will. These dentures are typically made with a gum-colored plastic base, replacement teeth and a clasp.
Dentists have to examine patients before fitting them for dentures. During the examination, the dentist might determine that the patient needs crowns on their teeth before getting dentures. Proper crown placement can improve the fit of the dentures.
People who have many missing teeth might choose removable complete dentures. These dentures can be made to replace all or most of the teeth. Removable complete dentures are customized for the patient and make it easier to talk and eat.
Patients who choose to get complete dentures have to go through a preparation process. Oral surgery is sometimes required to fix bony ridges that could impede the stability of the dentures Also, some people have to get teeth extracted prior to getting dentures.
Once the mouth is ready, the dentist will take impressions and send them off to the lab. Then, the patient will come back for a fitting when the dentures arrive.
Dental implants, fixed bridges, removable partial dentures and removable complete dentures are all viable options for tooth replacement. Discuss your options with a dentist to determine which one works for your mouth. Your dentist will talk about the preparation required for each solution and help you make a selection.
Are you considering tooth replacement in the Brevard area? Get more information at https://www.carolinasmilesdentist.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Most patients require a dental crown after a root canal to ensure the appearance, function and health of the tooth are protected. It is helpful to understand why a dental crown may be necessary and how the treatment process works for both root canal therapy and dental crown placement.A dental crown may be needed if…
CEREC® dental crowns are a rather new but extremely popular restoration option used for repairing and renewing damaged teeth. They offer the same goal that traditional dental crowns do; however, they come with many differences, including what they actually are, how they are made and how the process works. Because there are a few notable differences…
Dental veneers are a popular treatment option used for both restorative and cosmetic purposes. They are versatile in the sense that they can be used to cover stained teeth, repair chipped teeth and even lengthen teeth that are too short. While veneers are a popular choice for many patients, they are newer to dentistry compared…
A family dentist spends most of their time dealing with gum disease and tooth decay. Gum disease is an infection that is caused by bacteria and plaque getting beneath the gums. In response to the bacterial invasion, the immune system dispatches antibodies to eliminate the bacteria. A battle ensues and the result is swelling, inflammation,…
Most patients require a dental crown after a root canal to ensure the appearance, function and health of the tooth are protected. It is helpful to understand why a dental crown may be necessary and how the treatment process works for both root canal therapy and dental crown placement.A dental crown may be needed if…
CEREC® dental crowns are a rather new but extremely popular restoration option used for repairing and renewing damaged teeth. They offer the same goal that traditional dental crowns do; however, they come with many differences, including what they actually are, how they are made and how the process works. Because there are a few notable differences…