If you have a missing tooth, you have a few options for tooth replacement. According to the Forest Dental Center in Lynchburg, you can opt for dental implants, or have a dental bridge placed.
Which option is best for you depends on a number of factors including how long your tooth has been missing and where your missing tooth is located.
Dental Implants for Missing Teeth
The strongest replacement for a missing tooth is a dental implant. Because they are surgically implanted into your jaw, they act as a natural tooth root. This prevents bone resorption, which occurs when you lose a tooth. If you have had missing teeth for some time, Your Lynchburg dentist may recommend bone replacement surgery. Bone replacement surgery is used when you do not have adequate bone to support the titanium implant post.
If you have missing teeth on the top of your mouth, the Lynchburg dental team will probably schedule you for sinus lift surgery, as this part of your bone has little support.
What are Dental Implants?
Simply stated, dental implants are screws or posts that are surgically placed in or on your jawbone. Because you’ll need surgery, you’ll also need 6 to 12 months recovery time depending on what procedures you had done for your implant surgery.
Once the area has healed, Forest Dental Center will place artificial teeth on top of the posts. These teeth are matched and shaped to your natural smile. Dental implants can last a lifetime as long as you practice good oral hygiene.
What are Dental Bridges?
If you are against surgery, or not a good candidate for dental implants, dental bridges are another alternative.
Permanent bridges bridge the gap with an artificial tooth. The tooth is held together with a false tooth and two dental crowns. Made to fit your mouth the dental appliance is bonded to your mouth for a secure fit. Dental bridges require more care than dental implants as tooth decay can still occur under the dental crowns.
If you would like to replace your missing teeth, or believe you may have some teeth that need to be replaced and are considering dental implants, call or click and schedule an appointment with the Forest Dental Center today.