For most people losing a tooth is a horrifying thought, especially if that tooth is in the centre of your smile. Fortunately modern treatments can help you keep your teeth for longer than ever before.
But what if your tooth cannot be saved? What do you do? Traditionally missing teeth were replaced with some form of denture or a type of bridge. More modern alternatives rely on the use of dental implants.
The use of a denture, also known as false teeth or a plate, can be a depressing experience. They are less than ideal especially when there may only be one or two missing teeth. The fact they are removable and not fixed can lead to feelings of insecurity and embarrassment, especially in public places. In addition dentures can also lead to problems with the remaining teeth and gums if your home oral hygiene routine is not meticulous.
A dental bridge is a fixed alternative to a denture. They usually involve using one or both teeth either side of the gap to act as a support for the missing tooth. The use of the additional teeth does put them at greater risk of future problems and possible failure. These risks can be reduced by choosing a minimalistic design of bridge. Something that isn’t always possible.
Dental implants are proving to be the ideal solution in many cases. They involve the placement of a titanium screw into the bone where the tooth used to be. A crown is then fitted on top. Being fixed you don’t have to worry about your teeth falling out when you least want them to. Because they are fixed into the jawbone there is no risk to the adjacent teeth.They look, feel and can be used just as your natural teeth giving you the confidence to live your life as you wish.
As Dentists our aim is always to try and save your natural tooth. If however that’s not possible dental implants can get your mouth and smile feeling back to normal again.