Thursday, August 15, 2013

Ask the Doctor: Lost Tooth

ASK THE DOCTOR!
Q: Dafne asks "What can be done if you've lost a tooth?"
A: There are several options if you've lost a tooth. The first is a bridge. A bridge literally bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap -- these two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth -- and a false tooth/teeth in between.
Bridges can restore aesthetics and function and we almost always use all tooth colored porcelain bridges in the front area for aesthetics.
The second option is a dental implant. Dental Implants have changed the face of dentistry over the last 25 years and are an amazing long term option. Implants replace the root of the tooth with titanium. The top of the implant is then restored with a natural looking crown that mimics tooth form and function. With a single implant, you do not need to do anything to the adjacent teeth.
Both are great options. One may be preferred over the other depending on conditions in the mouth and aesthetic goals. Consult further with your dentist for more information!

Photo: ASK THE DOCTOR!
Q: Dafne asks "What can be done if you've lost a tooth?"
A: There are several options if you've lost a tooth. The first is a bridge. A bridge literally bridges the gap created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap -- these two anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth -- and a false tooth/teeth in between. 
Bridges can restore aesthetics and function and we almost always use all tooth colored porcelain bridges in the front area for aesthetics.
The second option is a dental implant. Dental Implants have changed the face of dentistry over the last 25 years and are an amazing long term option. Implants replace the root of the tooth with titanium. The top of the implant is then restored with a natural looking crown that mimics tooth form and function. With a single implant, you do not need to do anything to the adjacent teeth. 
Both are great options. One may be preferred over the other depending on conditions in the mouth and aesthetic goals. Consult further with your dentist for more information!

No comments:

Post a Comment