subject: Tooth Loss- What Your Options Are [print this page] No matter how it happens, losing a tooth is never something you want to go through. Whether it occurs due to deep decay or a sudden injury, it is important that you understand that your dentist has the ability to effectively replace your tooth and restore your smile. In fact, there are several effective methods your dentist has to replace a lost tooth.
Dental Implant and Crown
The most permanent option you have to replace a lost tooth is through the use of a dental implant. An implant is a replacement tooth root that is attached to your jawbone. Once put in, it will act as an anchor for a replacement crown. After your dentist securely attaches the implant to your jawbone, you will need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gum to heal around the implant. When the healing process is complete, your dentist will take an impression of the area to create a crown will fit in perfectly with your teeth. The crown is then attached to the implant, completing the procedure. Once the implant and crown are installed, they can last as long as 25 years or in some cases an entire lifetime.
Dental Bridges
Another popular method to replace a lost tooth is through the use of a dental bridge. A bridge is an artificial replacement tooth that is held in place on either side by dental crowns. To put in a bridge, your dentist will begin by reducing the size of the two teeth that will receive crowns. After this, an impression will be taken of the area in order to create a bridge that will fit in perfectly to your bite. You will then wear a temporary bridge for between two and three weeks while a dental technician creates your final one. Once your permanent bridge arrives, your dentist will do a final check to make sure the coloring and fit are correct. If they are, he or she will then use a special cement to attach the bridge. Once put in, a dental bridge generally lasts about 15 years.
Dentures
If you have lost many or all of your teeth, your dentist may recommend a set of dentures. For patients who have lost all or almost all of their teeth, dentists will generally recommend a complete set of removable dentures. If you have only lost several teeth, your dentist will give you a partial set of dentures. Partial dentures use a combination of your natural teeth and several artificial ones to fully restore your smile. Once you wear your dentures, they will give you a very natural tooth appearance and no one will be able to tell that your teeth are not completely natural.
To learn more about your options to deal with tooth loss or to schedule an appointment, contact your Hagerstown dentist today.
