You never plan to have a black hole in your dental landscape, but at times, this happens. Injury, missing adult teeth and cracked teeth can lead to having a missing tooth in your mouth. When this happens you will be faced with what to do with the existing hole. It is possible that you decide to just leave the gap there and embrace the hole as your own. In many cases, this choice is not acceptable for aesthetic reasons. Your other two options in restorative dentistry are a dental implant or dental bridge. We’d like to compare and contrast these for you so you can make a more informed decision.
Let’s compare what is similar between the implant and bridge. These two options are the same in that they both fill a hole in your mouth where a tooth is missing. They both are good options for you depending on your need. They both are fixed appliances that can be customized to look like your natural tooth.
A dental bridge is unique for several reasons. Dentists have used dental bridges for generations. They are a tried and true method. They were one of the first and only options for tooth restoration for years. A bridge is constructed of two crowns that are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap where the tooth (or teeth) is missing. The replacement tooth is placed in the middle of the crowns to fill the empty space.
Implants have been called the greatest and most revolutionary restorative dental treatment to become available in the last century. Dental implants are artificial tooth “roots” that are anchored in the jawbone. These anchors are constructed out of titanium, and can successfully and permanently hold a replacement tooth (or teeth) in place.
Both options are good ones for your dental restoration needs, but it is important to discuss with a dentist like Dr. Thompson which is best for you. Each mouth and circumstance is unique. Dr. Thompson will listen to your needs, and look at all of the factors that will help you make the best decision for you. Call and make your appointment at Thousand Oaks Dental today.
Posted on behalf of Thousand Oaks Dental