Losing an adult tooth is a startling and upsetting experience. Whether it gets knocked out, broken or has to be pulled, you don’t have to live with an incomplete smile. There are several ways to restore the look and function of missing teeth. Learn more about the ways visiting a prosthetic and implant dentist in Phoenix can make your smile whole again.
Implants
Dental implants are an ideal way to replace a single or even multiple lost teeth. They’re the most stable, most natural-feeling and provide the most support for the underlying bone.
Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically seated in your gums and jaw bone. The bone heals around the post, securing it in place permanently and providing maximum stability. Your dentist will then provide you with a prosthetic tooth that fits on top of the implant. The prosthesis will match the size and color of your existing teeth.
If you’ve lost a tooth recently, consult with an implant dentist in Phoenix near you as soon as possible. Not only will you have a full smile faster, you’ll also prevent bone loss that could make the procedure more complicated and increase expense in the future.
Bridges
If you’ve lost a few teeth that neighbored one another, a dental bridge can be an excellent option. Bridges are prostheses that ‘bridge’ a gap of one to three teeth. They look great, feel good and keep your jaw in excellent condition.
Bridges rely on the two teeth on either side of the gap for support. They serve as the ‘anchor’ points, and the bridge extends between them.
There are two types of dental bridges:
• Traditional: Dental crowns or implants serve as the ‘anchor’ points.
• Maryland Bonded: Metal wings that wrap around the back of the ‘anchor’ teeth are used. This technique is typically reserved for when only one tooth is missing.
Crown-supported bridges were once the most popular type, but implant-supported bridges are quickly gaining popularity. Implant-supported bridges last 15 years or more, provide more support for the underlying bone, are easier to care for, look the best and can be used to bridge wider gaps. When you consult with an implant dentist at our Phoenix offices, your dentist will go over whether or not you’re a good candidate for implants.
Dentures
When more four or more teeth are missing, a full or partial denture is often the most economical path to restore healthy, beautiful smile. Full dentures replace all of the teeth in a row. Partial dentures can be customized to fill in whichever teeth are missing. They’re commonly used when molars, the teeth in the back of the mouth, are lost.
Both denture types are available in many styles to fit your needs, preferences and budget. While there are an incredible number of types, two of the most common are:
• Traditional: Traditional dentures use proper fitting and adhesives to stay in place. They’re removable, affordable and require the fewest number of office visits. However, they tend to shift, don’t support the underlying bone and are the least comfortable.
• Implant-Supported: Implant-supported dentures anchor to the palate on dental implants. While they require several office visits to have prepared and are a bigger investment, they’re the most functional and comfortable type of denture available.
More Than Just Looks
Once the shock of losing a tooth wears off, some people wonder if they have to get their tooth replaced. If it’s in a hidden spot, budget is a concern or replacement just seems like a hassle, people can go quite some time neglecting to get the space filled. You never want to delay getting a prosthesis. Filling that gap in your gum line is important for your long-term dental health.
Our teeth work together in many amazing ways. They let us speak clearly, chew comfortably and a full set of teeth is a powerful support structure. The keep each other in alignment and encourage the jaw bone above and beneath them to stay strong. Just one missing tooth can lead to progressive bone loss and alignment concerns.
Getting a prosthesis for a missing tooth:
• Prevents bone loss
• Helps the face maintain its shape
• Restores your ability to chew and speak comfortably
• Prevents your remaining teeth from shifting out of alignment
• Keep your bite comfortable
• Keeps your smile looking beautiful
Sky Dental Alliance strives to make dental care more affordable and accessible to every family in Phoenix. If budget is a concern for you, speak to our staff about our affordable, in-house financing plans. Our plans and reasonable pricing together make low cost dental implants and other prosthetic dentistry a reality.
Ready to complete your smile? Sky Dental Alliance is here to help. Give us a call and schedule an appointment with an implant dentist at our Phoenix offices today.