If you have lost a tooth, or a few teeth, either through decay or accident, you may choose to live with the gap.  Alternatively, as with most of our patients, you will want to replace them, and you will want to know what your choices are.  In these simple steps, the SameDay Teeth Suite will explain your options so you can make your decision and restore your smile.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically implanted into your jawbone. After the healing period of several months, when the implant has fused in place a false tooth is secured to the implant. Where a number of teeth are missing, dentures or bridges can be screwed or clipped onto the implant. Implants are considered the gold-standard restoration in modern day dentistry as they are the strongest, longest lasting, and life-like restorative option available to you.

Bridges

If only one or two of your teeth are missing, your dentist may recommend a bridge. This consists of two crowns, which are placed on your natural teeth either side of the space, with an artificial tooth in the middle. Bridges are made of porcelain and metal, and there are many designs.

Your dentist will prepare your natural teeth on either side of the space for the crowns to fit on top. The crowns are permanently attached to an artificial tooth in the centre. The biggest advantage, in comparison to dentures, is enhanced aesthetics and a fixed solution.

Dentures

It is sometimes necessary to extract teeth due to ill health and decay.  After you have teeth removed, it can take several months for your jawbone and gums to heal completely. During this time, your dentist may fit a temporary denture. Your dentist can usually fit this on the same day that your teeth are removed so you can wear it immediately.

As your jaw heals, the temporary denture may become loose and need adjusting. It can take up to six months for your jawbone and gums to become stable. Your dentist will then be able to fit your long-term denture or bridge.

The benefits of dentures are that they are the most economical and non-invasive restorative option. However, the biggest drawback is that they are not fixed and need to be removed to clean. In addition, they have reduced retention, in comparison to other restorative options.

Which Option To Choose

The most appropriate treatment for you will depend on the number of teeth you have missing. It will also depend on where teeth are missing in your mouth and the condition of any remaining teeth. Your general and oral health status will be a determining factor. Your dentist will help you decide which option is best for you.

Your New Teeth

Whichever option you and your dentist decide upon, rest assured you will have natural looking and fully functioning new teeth.  Made by the skilled clinical dental technician at our laboratory, with the assistance of cad-cam technology, each tooth is made individually to not only look good but to work well.  Whether you choose implants, bridges or dentures, your new teeth will be both strong and natural looking.

Are you missing teeth? Are you thinking about your options? If you have any further questions that you would like answering, please post your questions below and we will be happy to answer them.

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