Is there a gap in your smile?
Do you chew on one side because of a missing molar on the other side?
Let’s talk about how we can remedy this situation.
When it comes to tooth loss, our next thought should be “How do we replace the tooth we lost?” When a tooth is extracted, the bone in and around the socket resorbs or pulls back. It basically reduces in quantity. The sooner the tooth is replaced, the better we preserve the precious bone. Also, we can prevent the teeth around the space from shifting.
TOOTH REPLACEMENT OPTIONS:
There are three options.
Option #1- Removable partial denture
This option can replace 1 or more teeth with an appliance that “clicks” in and out of your mouth . IT “latches or clasps” around your remaining teeth. It gets removed regularly to be cleaned and is not recommended to wear while you sleep. It fills the spaces but does take some getting used to. It won’t be as strong as the teeth God gave you, but it is preferable over no replacement.
Option #2- Cemented fixed bridge
This option can also replace 1 or more teeth. It accomplishes this by utilizing the teeth on either side of the space. This can be described as “connected crowns”. If replacing one tooth, with a tooth on either side of the space, both teeth are prepared in the same way crowns or caps are prepared. Then, a one piece, 3 tooth bridge is made and cemented over the two prepared teeth. The result is much stronger than a partial denture and a lot easier to get used to. The bridge is not removed, and you brush it just like your teeth.
Option #3- Dental implant supported crown/bridge
This option also can replace 1 or more teeth. In an example with one missing tooth, the dental implant is placed in the bone where the roots used to reside. Then, a crown is made to attach to the dental implant. This option is the closest representation of a natural tooth.
As we stated earlier, all three options are better than no tooth replacement. Each individual’s mouth will dictate the best choice for them.