subject: Tooth Loss- What Your Options Are [print this page] Whether caused by years of neglect or a sudden injury, losing a tooth can be a very stressful occurrence. However, losing a tooth should not cause you to panic. Years of advances in dental technology have given your dentist a few different effective options to replace your missing tooth. Don't hesitate to see your Avondale dentist if you think you may be in need of a tooth replacement procedure.
Dental Implants
The longest lasting option for replacing a missing tooth is through the use of dental implants. A dental implant is a replacement tooth root that is installed into the bone socket of your missing tooth and attached directly to your jawbone. Once installed, a dental implant will act as an anchor for a replacement dental crown. After the titanium implant is put in, you will need to wait between six and twelve weeks for your gums to heal around the implant. After it does, your dentist will take an impression of the area in order to create a replacement crown. When it is ready, he or she will attach the crown directly to the implant. After an implant is put in, it can last 25 years or in some cases for an entire lifetime.
Dental Bridges
Another popular method to replace a missing 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 a bridge in, your dentist will begin by anesthetizing the area and filing down the two teeth that will receive crowns. After this, he or she will take a detailed impression of the area in order to create a bridge that will fit perfectly into your mouth and bite. This impression is then sent to a dental lab, where it will usually take between two and three weeks to be created. In between appointments, you will wear a temporary bridge. Once your permanent bridge arrives, 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 them into place to finish the procedure.
Denture
If you have lost many or all of your teeth, you and your dentist may decide that a set of dentures is the best option for you. If your have only lost several teeth, you will most likely be provided with a partial set of dentures by your dentist. Partial dentures use a combination of artificial teeth and your natural teeth to complete your smile. If you have lost all or almost all of your teeth, your dentist will recommend a complete set of removable dentures. Once your dentures are ready, they will give you a very natural tooth appearance. No one will be able to tell that your teeth are not completely natural.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options or to schedule an appointment, contact your dentist in Avondale today.
