subject: How Your Dentist Can Restore Your Smile After A Lost Tooth [print this page] Whether it is caused by years of decay or a sudden blow to the face, losing a tooth is never an enjoyable experience. In this situation, however, it is important not to panic. Thanks to modern dental techniques and technologies, your dentist has the capability to fully restore your smile. Your dentist has several effective options to replace a missing tooth. If you are in a situation where you need a tooth replacement, don't hesitate to talk to your Bowie dentist as soon as you can.
Dental Bridges
One common method to replace a missing tooth is to use a dental bridge. A bridge is an artificial replacement tooth that is held in place on either side by dental crowns. To put a bridge in, your dentist will first anesthetize the area and reduce the two teeth that will receive dental crowns. After this, an impression will be taken and sent to a dental lab. While at the lab, your dentist will give you a temporary bridge to wear. After two to three weeks, your permanent bridge will be ready. Your dentist will do a final check to make sure the fit and coloring are correct. If they are, he or she will then permanently cement your bridge in place. A dental bridge can last 15 years or longer once installed.
Dental Implants
The longest lasting option that you have is to get your tooth replaced with the help of a dental implant. Dental implants are replacement tooth roots that are installed into the bone socket of a missing tooth and directly attached to your jawbone. After begin put in, a dental implant acts as an anchor for a replacement crown. Once the titanium implant is securely fastened to your jawbone, you will need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gums to heal around the implant. Once they do, your dentist will then take an impression of the area in order to create a crown that will fit in perfectly with the rest of your teeth. Once the crown is created, your dentist will attach it to the implant to complete the procedure. Once this is done, your implant and crown can last 25 years or in some cases an entire lifetime.
Dentures
If you have lost multiple teeth, your dentist may decide that a set of complete or partial dentures are your best option. If you have lost only several teeth, you will most likely receive a set of partial dentures. These use a combination of your natural teeth and artificial teeth to complete your smile. If you have lost all or almost all of your teeth, your dentist will give you a complete set of removable dentures. Once you get your dentures, they will give you a very natural tooth appearance and no one will be able to tell that your teeth are not your own.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options or to schedule an appointment, contact your Bowie dentist today.
