Many of our patients visit our office looking for more information on replacing one or more missing teeth. Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic concern. When you are missing a tooth, your surrounding dental structures are placed under additional strain which can lead to further dental damage or jaw pain. As your trusted restorative dentist in McLeansville, NC, we want to provide you with some additional information on your options for replacing missing teeth. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding the most common restorative dentistry options:
What is the difference between dental bridges and dental implants?
Dental bridges and dental implants are two different restorative dentistry options for replacing missing teeth. Dental bridges can be supported using the adjacent teeth to hold up a prosthetic tooth in the space that the missing tooth used to be in. Dental bridges do not require a surgical procedure, though they may require additional steps in your oral hygiene routine to ensure that no foods or residues get caught underneath the bridge. On the other hand, a dental implant involves a surgically implanted post that gives your tooth replacement tooth root functionality. Over the course of a few months, the implant fuses into the jawbone, creating a stable foundation that is used to support your prosthetic tooth. While the healing process for dental implants takes longer than dental bridges because of this surgical component, many patients enjoy the natural tooth aesthetics that implants provide.
How can I have a full arch of teeth replaced?
For patients looking to replace a full arch of teeth, our office offers a full range of denture options to fit your budget, dental needs, and cosmetic goals including implant-secured dentures as well as removable dentures. If you are receiving removable dentures, it will require 2-3 visits to our dental office. For implant dentures, we will coordinate your care with a local oral surgeon for the placement of the implants. Once the implants are placed, we will continue on to create your customized dentures using dental impressions. Our goal is to ensure that your dentures fit comfortably, securely, and naturally in your mouth.
My tooth is damaged, not missing. What can be done?
Dental crowns can be utilized to repair damaged teeth. A dental crown involves shaving down the damaged tooth to its foundational core and topping it with a crown to protect the remaining tooth structure while also restoring its functionality and aesthetics. The crown is created custom to your smile and cemented to it for a secure tooth replacement. Dental crowns can also be used to top off a dental implant or support a dental bridge.
Schedule An Appointment
McLeansville Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers a full range of restorative dentistry treatment. Our entire team looks forward to helping you restore the health of your teeth, gums, and jawbone while also helping you achieve your dream smile. Please schedule an appointment with us if you suspect you are in need of restorative dentistry services. We look forward to seeing you soon.