If you have missing teeth, you’ve probably heard about dental implants. Dental implants are one of the most revolutionary ways to replace teeth, but they do take some preparation from you and your dentist in Lumberton. Not everyone is the right candidate for them. In fact, you may not be the perfect candidate for dental implants if you’re:
- Young because your mouth hasn’t stopped developing.
- Currently pregnant.
- A tobacco user or not willing to quit using tobacco products.
- An alcohol or substance abuser.
- Someone who has received high-dose radiation treatment of the head or neck.
- Someone with chronic diseases or systemic problems.
Even if you’re not the best candidate for dental implants, there are many ways to replace your missing teeth! Learn all about tooth replacement here!
Replacing a Single Tooth
A Tooth-Supported Fixed Bridge
The most common alternative to dental implants for single tooth replacement is to use a dental bridge. You can simply create a bridge between the two surrounding teeth and fill the space your missing tooth left. All your dentist does is remove small amounts of your natural surrounding teeth to allow your dental bridge to be attached. This supports the bridge and helps your restoration blend with the rest of your teeth.
A Composite Resin-Bonded Bridge
Sometimes, your dentist may recommend having your dental bridge bonded with cosmetic composite resin for single tooth replacement. This is a good option if your missing tooth is in the front of your teeth for aesthetic reasons. But, if your missing tooth is in the back, it’s not the best idea to use composite resin for teeth that will be crunching and breaking down food. It’s not typically as strong as fixed bridgework.
More Permanent Options
Replacing a Single Tooth
One way a dental implant is commonly used is replacing a single tooth. During this procedure, your dental implant post will be placed in your jaw where the lost tooth once was. Once it heals and fuses with your body, your dentist will attach a dental crown.
Replacing Consecutive Missing Teeth
Even though you may need two teeth to be replaced, this dental problem can be easily solved with just one dental implant. The only difference is that two prosthetics will be attached (a dental bridge created from two attached dental crowns).
Replacing Scattered Teeth in the Mouth
If you’re missing teeth throughout your mouth but not consecutively, there is a solution for you: fixed partial dentures. This dental prosthetic can replace your missing teeth by fitting just like the perfect puzzle piece.
Replacing All of Your Teeth
If you have a severe case of tooth loss, you may need to replace a full arch of teeth—maybe even both arches! Most patients that have lost that many teeth are forced to experience inconveniences like slippage, jaw bone deterioration, and unpleasant adhesives. But with dental implants in Lumberton, they will simply snap onto your implant posts for a permanent fix!
Meet Your Dentists
Although we’re completely capable, our Mt. Holly Family Dentistry doesn’t just want to “fix” your dental problems. Our dental team is here to help you develop a long-lasting plan to maintain whole, healthy smiles. If you would like to speak to one of our dental experts about replacing your teeth, feel free to call our Mt. Holly office.