A person may lose a permanent tooth for several reasons. Gum disease, facial trauma, and severe decay are a few of the most common causes of tooth loss. Thankfully, if a patient wants to replace a missing tooth, a Restorative Dentist in Fargo ND can use one of these procedures.
Dentures
Perhaps the most popular option, patients may receive dentures if they are missing an entire row of teeth. Gum disease is often to blame for tooth loss of this magnitude. However, some patients may need to replace teeth following an illness, such as cancer.
Dentures sit on the patient’s gum tissue and are removable. The dentist takes molds of the patient’s mouth to make sure the dentures fit snugly and comfortably. Modern dentures look very realistic, and most people adjust to their new false teeth without any complications.
Bridges
It’s not uncommon for a patient to lose a single tooth. In cases like this, dentures are not the right choice. Instead, a restorative dentist in Fargo ND may recommend the patient gets a bridge. As the name suggests, a bridge suspends a new tooth between two healthy teeth.
During the procedure, the dentist fits the teeth on either side of the empty socket with a dental crown. Next, the dentist places a false tooth between both crowns. Once the bridge is complete, the dentist cements it in place. Bridges have a long lifespan, and they only fail if the supporting teeth sustain damage.
Implants
If a patient wants to replace a missing tooth with a realistic prosthetic, an implant is the best option. Unlike the other treatments, getting an implant involves a surgical procedure. The dentist inserts a titanium post into the patient’s jaw. As it heals, the post fuses to the bone and functions like a tooth root.
It’s important to note, however, that not every patient is a candidate for dental implants. The patient must have enough bone to support the implant. After losing a tooth, the jaw bone slowly erodes. For best results, it’s imperative patients begin the implant process as soon as possible.
Losing a tooth may affect a person’s speech, ability to eat, and self-confidence. Anyone missing a tooth should visit a dentist to determine the best course of action. Contact us to make an appointment with a skilled restorative dentist.
