Have you recently lost a tooth? Are you missing an entire row of teeth due to a serious accident? Tooth loss as an adult is not nearly as exciting as it is as a child. In fact, it can be downright terrifying. Thoughts of how it will affect your dental function, smile’s appearance, and overall quality of life start to cross your mind.
To make matters worse, the tooth replacement options seem endless and overwhelming. If you are unsure what your next steps involve, Dr. Abbey Lee discusses the available tooth replacement options at her Grant Park office, including dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures.
If you are interested in restoring your smile, please contact our Grant Park office today online or by calling 404.328.7177 to set up a consultation with general dentist Dr. Lee.
Dental Bridges
When tooth loss is isolated to one section of the mouth and you are missing one to three consecutive teeth, dental bridges are often recommended as a quick and affordable approach. This tooth replacement solution consists of at least one artificial tooth flanked by two dental crowns fused together as one piece. The dental bridge is made from realistic porcelain, supported by teeth on either side of the gap, and secured in place with dental cement. The number of artificial teeth included will depend on the number of teeth missing. A dental bridge does just as it name states, bridges the space left behind to restore both the aesthetics and function.
Partial and Complete Dentures
When tooth loss occurs sporadically throughout the mouth, but you still have a good amount of healthy teeth remaining, a partial denture can help fill in the missing spaces. This removable prosthetic is made of gum-colored acrylic and realistic synthetic teeth affixed to a metal framework. It is secured in place with tiny metal clasps that fit tightly around surrounding teeth. To ensure optimal support, you must have sturdy, healthy teeth able to support the device.
If you are missing an entire row of teeth, a complete denture will provide better support. Much like a partial denture, it is made from natural looking materials designed to resemble your former teeth. Rather than using a metal framework and clasps, it rests directly on your gums and is secured in placed with suction and a dental adhesive.
Both partial and complete dentures should be removed nightly while sleeping for adequate cleaning and to alleviate pressure on your gums and any remaining teeth.
Dental Implants
If you are looking for a more permanent tooth replacement solution, Dr. Lee recommends dental implants. These small posts are made from resilient and biodegradable titanium designed to bond with your jawbone and support a customized implant restoration, such as a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture. Implants are surgically inserted into the jawbone and require a four to six month healing period. Although the recovery is lengthy, once the implants are secured, they are considered permanent and can last a lifetime when properly cared for. Whether you are missing a single missing tooth or an entire row of teeth, dental implants can completely and effectively restore your smile.
Which Is Best for You?
Scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lee at our Grant Park office will help determine which tooth replacement solution is better suited for you. While dental implants are certainly considered one of the best, they may not fit within your budget and timeline. Contact our office today online or by calling 404.328.7177 to learn more.
