12
Jun
Are There Options for Replacing Missing Front Teeth?
Options for replacing missing front teeth
If saving a tooth is impossible and the dentist recommends tooth extraction, some of the following are options for replacing missing front teeth:
Dental implant restoration
The dentist may recommend an implant if the tooth has to be removed or if a front tooth has been knocked out. Implant restorations offer the most surreal and closest match to the natural teeth, meaning it will be hard to tell that a patient has undergone tooth replacement. Dental implants are metal posts that are inserted into the jawbone under the gum line.
Osseointegration is the process through which metal implants get integrated into the bone. This procedure offers a steady foundation on which a dental prosthetic can be attached. The recovery time after receiving an implant may range from 6 to 12 weeks. The dentist will insert an abutment over the implant, upon which the replacement tooth will be mounted. Depending on the number of missing teeth, the dental professional can attach a crown or bridge.
Fixed bridge
Bridges consist of two crowns, one on each end, and a substitute tooth (pontic) bridge that sits in the gum line where tooth loss has occurred. Dental crowns are bonded to the teeth on either side. These teeth (called abutment teeth) need to be filed down by the dentist to ensure the crowns fit correctly. This option is typically used when there are consecutive missing teeth on the jaw. In the case of multiple missing teeth, your dentist may use dental implants to support the bridge.
Removable partial dentures
A partial denture may be a better choice than a bridge if the patient has lost several teeth that are not next to one another. The new teeth would sit on top of the gums, connected to artificial plastic gums. The metal wire may be used to join different pieces of prosthetic teeth. After that, the dentures are removable for cleaning. They are generally a less expensive choice for replacing lost teeth, although they may not be as long-lasting as other alternatives.
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In conclusion
Contact our dental office immediately if you have damaged or knocked out a front tooth. They will either be able to see you for an emergency appointment if required, or they will schedule you as soon as possible if you do not have an urgent need. During your appointment, options for replacing missing front teeth will be explored with you.
Request an appointment or call Randal S. Elloway DDS, Inc at (530) 527-6777 for an appointment in our Red Bluff office.
Randal Elloway, DABOI, FAAID
Dr. Elloway has a Bachelor’s in Biology from La Sierra University and a DDS from Loma Linda University, and brings over 30 years of dental experience to his practice in Red Bluff. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, and a member of the American Dental Association, California Dental Association, and Northern California Dental Society. Dr. Elloway is committed to continuous learning and compassionate care, and volunteers internationally to help needy patients.