There are several ways to replace a missing tooth. Depending on its location and function, tooth replacement options may include a dental bridge, dental implants, or dentures. With both bridges and implants, the restoration will be completed with a dental crown.
A Closer Look at Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can be used to hold a single tooth replacement or to hold several in a row. For a traditional dental bridge, crowns are placed over the teeth on either side of the hole. The bridge itself is bonded to these crowns and used to hold a third crown in place of the missing tooth.
Dental bridges are strong, reliable, and effective. They can restore strength and beauty to your smile. They cannot, however, prevent jaw collapse.
A Closer Look at Dental Implants
Dental implants are inserted into jaw bone. Once placed, they undergo a process called osseointegration whereby they become accepted by the body as a new tooth root. As with bridges, dental crowns are used for the restoration of dental implants.
Because they replace missing tooth roots, dental implants can prevent jaw collapse. They are the only tooth replacement option that offers this benefit.
What About Dentures?
Dentures are seldom used to replace a single missing tooth. Partial dentures can be used to replace several teeth in a row. Full dentures are used to replace the entire arch. Depending on your oral health and other factors, implant-supported dentures may be an option.
The best way to determine if dentures are needed in your case is through a one-on-one consultation with Dr. John Phelps.
Why Cover a Missing Tooth?
Missing teeth can impact the strength and function of your bite. Even one missing tooth can allow adjacent teeth to slip out of place – and all missing teeth cause jaw shrinkage and collapse.
Replacing missing teeth helps protect your oral health and preserve your remaining teeth. It also helps restore your smile to its most attractive, helping to improve confidence and self-esteem.
To learn more about your tooth replacement options in Indianapolis, call experienced prosthodontist John R. Phelps at 317-548-6217 to schedule a consultation today.
