Losing a baby tooth is something often celebrated with a trip from the tooth fairy. But when you or a family member loses an adult tooth, there are often a lot of questions of what to do next. If you or a family member loses a tooth, the first thing you should do is make an emergency dental appointment. In some cases, the tooth can actually be placed back in by a dentist. But if that is not possible there are many restorative dental procedures that can help replace your missing tooth.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry refers to a variety of procedures designed to fix smiles. In many cases when a tooth is lost either by getting knocked out or due to decay, restorative dentistry is needed to replace the tooth. Restorative dentistry is often needed for both cosmetic and health reasons. A missing tooth can make it harder to chew and can cause issues with bite alignment. Missing teeth can also hurt your confidence. At Two Rivers Family Dentistry we want everyone to be confident in their smile which is why we offer so many great restorative procedures.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a false tooth that is put into the gap left by the missing tooth. A dental implant has multiple parts just like a normal tooth. There is a screw-like component that works as a replacement root that is attached to the jawbone. A connector is attached at the gum line and then covered with a dental crown, The dental crown is designed to appear exactly like any of your other teeth and works just like other teeth.
- Last-ability: Dental implants are an effective replacement for up to 15 years. 97% of dental implants reach the 10 year mark without needing to be replaced.
- Appearance: Many patients remark that implants continue to look natural for years.
- Health: Implants do not negatively impact the surrounding teeth.
- Process: The process of getting an implant can take up to half a year
- Cost: Dental implants have a higher upfront cost, but because of their last-ability many see this as a good investment.
- Insurance: Implants are not often covered by dental insurance
What Is A Dental Bridge?
Conversely, a dental bridge places a dental crown by attaching it to an adjacent tooth or teeth. Instead of connecting the tooth to the jawline, the tooth is connected to the surrounding teeth. There are a variety of dental bridge options. Traditional bridges are placed between two teeth and attached on other sides. However, there are some dental bridges that only require an anchor on one side.
- Process: The process of getting a bridge doesn’t require invasive procedures or surgery.
- Timing: A dental bridge can usually be made and applied in only two dental visits.
- Costs: Dental bridges tend to cost less upfront and are even covered by insurance in some cases.
- Durability: On average bridges need to be replaced every 5-10 years.
- Health: Dental bridges can affect the surrounding teeth and make it more difficult to take care of your teeth.
- Appearance: Some people argue that dental bridges look less realistic after a few years.
Schedule A Restorative Dentistry Appointment At Two Rivers Dentistry
If you have questions about what procedure is right for you or someone in your family, our dentists would be happy to discuss all of your options in greater detail. We would be happy to provide recommendations based on our decades of experience performing restorative dentistry. To set up an appointment please give us a call or send us a contact form.