3 Alternatives To A Dental Implant

If you are missing a single tooth, the most natural and long-lasting prosthetic tooth replacement is a dental implant. The implant replaces each component of a missing tooth, which includes the root and the crown. A screw is inserted into your jawbone to stabilize the tooth in the same manner that your natural tooth was held in place. Over time, the screw undergoes a process called osseointegration, in which the jawbone actually attaches to the screw. In addition, a dental crown that is shaped and colored like your natural tooth is connected to the screw by an abutment, so that aesthetically, the implant is difficult to distinguish from your other teeth. Still, there are alternatives to replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant. Here are a few.

Partial Denture

A partial denture is a removable tooth replacement. It can be inserted to provide the appearance and functionality of the missing tooth. However, due to its removable nature, it is not as stable as a dental implant. In addition, it may not look as natural. 

Dental Bridge

A dental bridge uses the two teeth adjacent to the missing tooth as supports for the prosthetic tooth replacement. The bridge is cosmetically appealing. However, the support teeth must be damaged in order to apply the bridge. 

The adjacent teeth are ground down and capped. The caps over the once-healthy teeth are attached to the prosthetic tooth so that it is supported on each side. Nevertheless, since the "fake" tooth is not inserted into the gums or jawbone, the bone beneath it is not stimulated and could eventually atrophy. If the jawbone does deteriorate, the contours of your face could be distorted. In addition, the bridge may not be as long-lasting as a dental implant.

Resin-bonded Bridge

A special bridge that is resin-bonded may be used to replace a tooth that is not involved in grinding food, such as a front tooth. Unlike a typical dental bridge, the teeth that border the missing tooth are not damaged during the bridge application. Instead, resin wings are applied to the adjacent teeth to hold the prosthetic tooth in place. The resin bridge looks great, but it is not as strong as a typical dental bridge. In addition, it does not last as long.

If you are considering having a missing tooth restored, you have multiple options. Contact a dentist in your area who specializes in tooth replacement to determine which one is right for you.

For professional dental care, contact a dental office such as Woodland Family Dental.