Most often when a patient presents with a missing tooth, one of three recommendations will be made: 1.) Dental Implant, 2.) Dental Bridge, or 3.) Dental Implant and Dental Bridge.
Dental Implants are generally the best option when the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth are intact and have had no fillings or other dental care to restore them to health. When this is the case, the best option will most likely be a dental implant. "Dental implants allow your dentist to replace a single tooth without compromising any additional teeth," says Dr. Judith Ko from her Hemet Valley Dental Practice. "When this option is best, your general dentist will most likely refer you to a specialist who will surgically place the implant," Dr. Ko adds. When the implant is ready, a crown will be placed, restoring the space.
Sometimes a Dental Bridge is the better option. This is the case when the adjacent teeth are already compromised or are decaying. Dental Bridges rely on the adjacent teeth for support and then a pontic, or false tooth, is created to fill the gap.
The third option is generally used when the span of the missing teeth or the location creates a challenge. For example: when the missing tooth is the last one in the mouth or there are several missing teeth in one area.
If you are missing a tooth, check with your dentist to see what are your options.
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