If you are missing a tooth, your dental office in Midwest City will probably give you two options for replacement. A dental implant or dental bridge.
While dental implants are the perfect choice for some patients, that aren’t always ideal. If your tooth hasn’t been there for years, your treatment options will be different to someone who has just had his or her tooth pulled.
Tooth Replacement Methods Have Grown
In the past, your only option for tooth replacement was a dental bridge. Dental bridges are used to, “Bridge,” the two abutment teeth with the new replacement tooth. Because of fit and strength, your two remaining teeth will need to be prepped before bridge placement. This requires some, if not most of your enamel removal.
Because your dental implant is surgically placed into your jaw, there is no need to alter the surrounding teeth. Dental implants are also stronger because one tooth can be replaced. A no obligation consultation with Dr. Julie Storm from Timberview Family Dentistry will determine what tooth replacement solution would be best for your needs.
Oral Health Care for Dental Bridges
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is much easier with dental implants. Because a dental bridge is permanently cemented in your mouth with crowns connecting them all together, there is a space above the false tooth. People with dental bridges need to use floss threaders to get under the tooth to keep it and the surrounding teeth clean.
Dental Implant and Dental Bridge Lifespan
Because dental implants are surgically implanted into your jawbone and made out of titanium, they can last a lifetime as long as you practice good oral hygiene. A dental bridge can last for about a decade. In addition, because part of your natural teeth is underneath, the bridge may fail sooner because of normal wear.
Only your dentist in Midwest City can determine what type of tooth replacement would be best for your needs. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Storm and her team from Timberview Dentistry today.