What’s The Best Tooth Replacement Option?

Arizona Professional Dentists Share 3 Ways To Replace a Missing Tooth

Teeth can be compared to having a new car. They start out bright and shiny and strong, but will eventually need replacement parts or a tune-up. When it comes to teeth, most adults will lose at least one at some point, and find themselves in need of a replacement from their Gilbert dentist office to avoid a gap in their mouth. Learn more about your tooth replacement options so you can feel great about your smile.

Common Causes Of Tooth Loss

In short, there are many reasons why people lose their adult teeth. Most commonly, gum disease and tooth decay are to blame. Gum disease, which affects a huge number of American adults, happens when there is excessive plaque and bacteria buildup along the gumline. This causes gum tissue to become red and swollen from inflammation. If not treated, gum disease will continue to worsen, causing discomfort, tooth pain, tooth loss, and eventually bone loss in the jaw.

Tooth decay is caused by food particles on and between teeth which encourage bacteria in the mouth to produce acid. Repeated acid attacks will damage tooth enamel and cause cavities. Both of these conditions will eventually lead to pain and tooth loss if they are not treated early.

Another common reason for tooth loss is sports injuries or other accidents. With enough impact, this type of tooth loss can happen even to people who have perfect oral hygiene and strong teeth.

I Lost a Tooth, Now What? Call Your Gilbert Dentist!

If you’ve lost a tooth or need to have one pulled, the first thing to do is seek advice from your Gilbert dental clinic. Likely, you’ll be recommended to consider one of these three most popular treatment options.

Option 1: Fixed Dental Bridges

A bridge is a solid, or fixed, dental device that uses existing teeth to support an adjacent prosthetic tooth. Your dentist can help you understand the different types of bridges and which may be the best option for you:

A Traditional Bridge

Is the most widely used and is made of ceramic or porcelain fused to Zirconia. With this dental fixture, the teeth on either side of a gap will be used to hold crowns that hold the prosthetic tooth in place in your mouth.

A Cantilever Bridge

Is similar, but uses only one supporting tooth to hold the prosthetic tooth.

A Maryland Bridge

Fuses the prosthetic tooth to metal bands on the back of the supporting teeth. This type of bridge is most often recommended for missing front teeth. It tends to have a higher rate of failure than a traditional bridge, but is advantageous in that it does not require the placement of crowns.

In most cases, getting a bridge will require at least two appointments. Your dentist will first prepare the teeth and place temporary crowns. Impressions of your teeth will be taken to help with the construction of your bridge, and a temporary bridge will be placed. The permanent, custom fabricated bridge will be placed about 2 weeks later at your second appointment.

Option 2: Replace Your Teeth With Dental Implants

Another popular option for replacing teeth, dental implants consist of a prosthetic tooth attached to a titanium post that your dentist will surgically implant into your jawbone. Over time, the gum tissue will regrow around the post. This type of placement makes dental implants a very secure and long-lasting option, as there is no risk of slipping or shifting, and you’ll be able to eat and speak normally. It’s also the best option to prevent the jawbone deterioration that can happen after tooth loss.

Implants also offer the advantage of not relying on adjacent teeth. Dental implants are the best option for people who have healthy gum tissue and a strong jawbone. Dental implants are the most expensive tooth replacement option, so you’ll want to discuss coverage with your dentist before opting for this treatment.

Option 3: Removable Partial Dentures

Some people are uncomfortable with more permanent tooth replacement options and prefer a removable device. Gilbert dental care can provide partial dentures as an option for these patients. Partial dentures consist of one or more prosthetic teeth attached to a base that matches your gum color. This frame fits snugly, but comfortably in your mouth, against your palette and between your natural teeth.

Dentures feel different in your mouth than regular teeth or implants do, and you’ll likely go through an adjustment period of learning to speak and eat with them in your mouth. Other people experience excess saliva production, feel like their tongue doesn’t have enough room, or develop some soreness. Dentures don’t last as long as implants or bridges do, so you’ll need to have a new set made periodically. However, they are the least expensive option when replacing multiple teeth.

Top Rated Tooth Replacement Services In Gilbert

If you’ve lost a tooth and are looking for a replacement solution, Gilbert Vista Dental Care is ready to help you understand your options. At our clinic, you’ll find compassionate and friendly staff who will provide outstanding care in a safe environment. We offer a full range of dental solutions to keep you smiling! Contact our office today to schedule your appointment.

Gilbert Vista Dental Care
2451 East Baseline Road #210
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Phone: (480) 503-5467
Email: info@drritapeck.com
Website: https://drritapeck.com/