Losing a tooth can happen to anyone at any time, whether due to an accident or biting down on something hard, and this can have a negative effect on a person’s self-confidence. In the event you suddenly see a space between your teeth when you look in the mirror, it is time to visit your local dentist to see what your options are. In order to help you to examine all of your options, here are the possible treatments for a missing tooth.
The Traditional Bridge – Bridging a missing tooth used to be the most common way to deal with a missing tooth and providing both of the teeth on either side of the gap are healthy, bridging is a possibility. This process involves grinding down the two anchor teeth to posts, onto which is attached the bridge and destroying two perfectly healthy teeth, which really makes no sense at all. It might work out fine, but what if you were to lose one of the anchor teeth? That would leave you with 3 missing teeth, which is certainly not the desired outcome.
Dental Implants – There has been great developments in the dental implant sector and for a permanent solution to a missing tooth, this is by far the best option. A special titanium pin is inserted into the jawbone at a precise location and after a couple of months, the pin will have fused with the jawbone and the prosthetic tooth can be affixed. Dental implants offer a permanent solution and once the treatment is complete, no one would ever know you lost a tooth. When searching for a dentist to carry out dental implant treatment, it is essential to choose a dental clinic that has extensive experience with dental implants, as this assures a perfect job.
Composite Bridgework – This is a form of bridge that does not involve grinding the two anchor teeth down to posts, which is a much-preferred solution. Not all dentists are able to perform composite bridgework, as it does require special skill, and when you compare the pros and cons, dental implants win every time. In some cases, a dental implant is not possible, as the person’s jawbone is of insufficient width to accept the titanium pin, and in such a case, the dentist might recommend a bridge of some sort.
Removable Bridge – While this is technically possible, in many cases, a removable bridge is not a feasible option. Even the traditional bridge will not hold up to any serious impact, and the removable bridge is even more delicate, which makes it a close second behind the dental implant.
For most people, a missing tooth is something that affects their self-esteem and leaving it simply isn’t an option. By consulting with an experienced dentist, you will be able to make an informed decision regarding the best possible treatment. If you have recently moved and do not yet have a regular dentist, a Google search will help to locate a nearby clinic, where you can get an expert opinion on the best treatment.
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