In the case that a person loses a permanent tooth as a result of trauma or an unfortunate incident such as biting into a solid object, it may be very concerning. A few people are born without a tooth or with a big gap and decide to remedy it at a later time within their lives. In some instances, tooth loss could also be because of poor hygiene or dental care, the normal aging process, or an accident. Thankfully, with cosmetic dentistry, missing teeth can be restored with the help of a variety of dental treatments, such as dental implants.
While there are a variety of ways to replace a missing tooth, among the most ideal treatments is a dental implant. Dental implants help patients to continue with their normal routines and engage in the routine behaviors of chewing, laughing, and smiling without worrying about their lost tooth or teeth. A dental bridge is an alternative way to treat a missing tooth. A bridge features a prosthetic tooth, which is adhered to healthy teeth surrounding a gap within the mouth. While the end objective of each restoration is to restore look and function, they are remarkably different treatment methods, and the ideal procedure will vary for each patient.
The trained dental professionals at DentalWorks – Alcoa provide insight into the distinctions between dental implants and bridges to help patients in determining which one is best to fit their needs.
SYMPTOMS OF A MISSING TOOTH
As a notable problem, a missing tooth may cause other teeth to move in order to accommodate for the open gap, impacting a patient’s entire bite. Your smile may also become too close together or crooked because of the displacement to fill the space, making it harder to accurately brush and floss. This ultimately could lead to periodontal disease and dental caries. This is why when a tooth goes missing, it needs to be restored as soon as possible.
WHAT TO KNOW IN RELATION TO DENTAL IMPLANTS
Basically an artificial tooth, a dental implant has a root that is connected to the jawbone in order to restore a lost tooth or teeth. A dental implant is the most stable type of dental device or option available to replace missing teeth. A screw-type device or metal post simulates a root that is attached to the existing jawbone and becomes a steady support for an artificial tooth or crown to be secured on top. Implant-supported devices are an ideal way to restore a patient’s smile or bite by supplying replacement teeth that are like existing teeth without any food restrictions!
An ideal way to replace a lost tooth, a dental implant feels like a real tooth for Alcoa, TN patients when chewing, brushing or doing normal activities. If a patient talks or smiles, there is no way to tell the difference between their natural teeth and an implant. Additionally, dental implants initiate bone growth through maintaining the natural jawbone. If completed by an expert dental professional, including those at DentalWorks – Alcoa, dental implants are the most secure and the most efficient method to obtain dental treatment that looks and feels natural. They offer a solid base for the permanent device of a crown or bridge. Once the implanted metal post(s) have adhered to the jawbone and gum line, implants contribute to a secure foundation that gives patients the assurance that their new restoration will remain in place similar to their natural teeth. Similarly, an implant gets rid of the concern and uncomfortable feeling of dealing with missing teeth that prevent your optimal smile.
The primary reasons a great deal of patients throughout Alcoa, TN enjoy their dental implant restorations are that they are durable and they don’t affect other neighboring teeth. The metal posts, positioned in the jawbone, are formulated from a substance that will not decompose or decay while offering a strong base to enable you to continue on with regular, daily activities. Dental implants are an excellent dental option to treat lost teeth so patients can experience a restored smile.
Just like with your natural teeth, you may brush and floss your dental implant as usual and go about your routine, eating and drinking whatever you desire. Additional care isn’t required, and there is no reason to alter your usual dental hygiene practices.
EVERYTHING ABOUT DENTAL BRIDGES
Just as its name conveys, a dental bridge is an artificial tooth that is adhered to healthy teeth (referred to as abutments) neighboring a gap. A dental bridge works by developing a bridge over the open area. Bridges are usually made of dental porcelain, metal, or a mix of the two. The dental restoration is commonly created from dental porcelain so that it resembles your natural teeth.
A traditional dental bridge utilizes both teeth on either side of the current gap, which are trimmed down to make room to position the bridge. Next, a dental crown is cemented over both teeth. Additionally, a bridge may be supported using a dental implant surgically placed to hold the appliance in the ideal position. An implant-retained bridge, which is cemented into position in the mouth and can be an additional option for Alcoa, TN individuals who lose one or a number of teeth. These are similar to your normal teeth and could be long-lasting.
As a pretty brief treatment, dental bridges can also be a cost-effective process to restore one or several missing teeth. In cases where patients have noticeable bone loss throughout the jaw, it is not essential to undergo a lengthy bone grafting procedure in order to receive a traditional bridge. However, because bridges do not treat existing issues, including bone loss, such conditions could remain even after the gap is closed and the aesthetic concern is corrected. In some individuals, the restoration could place more strain on the surrounding abutment teeth. As a result, bridges may need to be redone after a while.
When you are missing a tooth or even have several missing teeth, dental implants or bridges can restore your smile and improve your look. Increase your self-esteem and stop hiding behind your missing teeth! The dental team in Alcoa, TN will provide you with a personalized treatment plan to restore your smile and replace your missing tooth with the use of a dental implant or bridge so you can feel confident in your smile again. If you are curious about dental implants, call or set up an appointment at DentalWorks – Alcoa at your convenience.
