Do you have missing teeth? If so, then you’ve probably learned some ways to adapt. This may include giving up certain foods, smiling in a manner that conceals the gap in your teeth and more carefully pronouncing words. It can be difficult, though, to always make these accommodations. With the careful treatment of a local dentist, you can have any number of missing teeth replaced and get back to doing all the things you’ve had to omit from your life. As you continue reading, you’ll learn about the best option available for tooth replacement!
Full Replacement with a Dental Implant
Technically, there is more than one way to replace missing teeth. However, there is only one that replaces the entire tooth structure, from the root to the crown: a dental implant. A cylinder-shaped titanium post, it’s surgically inserted into the jawbone to mimic the original tooth root in functionality.
As your gums heal from the initial placement, a natural process called osseointegration occurs. This is when the underlying bone fuses with the implant to form a sturdy and lasting foundation. After the fusion occurs, the dentist will attach another titanium fixture – an abutment – to the implant. The anchoring component will allow a final restoration to be secured to fully replace your missing teeth and leave you with a gorgeous new smile.
While dental implant placement is considered to be the crème de le crème of tooth replacement, there are certain situations where an alternative may be better.
When to Consider a Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge can be used to replace one to three consecutive missing teeth. It consists of a series of porcelain prosthetics that are affixed to a single apparatus, and it’s secured by being cemented to the surrounding teeth. For the procedure to be successful, the teeth must first be prepped by the dentist removing a slight bit of enamel so that the dental crowns can be placed over them.
Here are some of the situations that a fixed bridge may be better suited for:
- Patients who prefer a shorter recovery time.
- Patients who want to avoid a surgical procedure.
- Patients who don’t have enough jawbone density to support an implant.
The Danger of Procrastination
Whether you prefer dental implants or a fixed bridge to replace your missing teeth, what’s most important is that you take action. That’s because the longer you wait, the greater the chances are of other problems emerging, which can include decreased jawbone mass, the surrounding teeth shifting and gum infection.
You have the power to prevent these issues by reaching out to a local dentist to have your missing teeth replaced!
About the Author
Dr. Paul Miller is a graduate of the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Dentistry. Throughout his career, he has provided the best in comprehensive dental care. Dr. Miller understands how important it is to have a full and functional set of teeth. Thus, he places dental implants and fixed bridges at Miller & Wolf, and he can be reached for more information through his website.