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Missing teeth does not only impact the appearance of your smile, it can also impact your oral health. There are many options for replacing missing teeth.

Dental Bridges

A bridge is a solution for replacing one or more consecutive teeth that are missing. The bridge is a set of crowns, which fit over your existing teeth on each side of the gap. The false tooth or teeth are suspended between the two “anchors” and look just like your natural teeth. When the bridge is placed, it is permanently bonded in place and cannot be removed except by your dentist.

Unlike partial dentures, a bridge does not require you to remove any of your remaining healthy teeth to create an anchor for the appliance. Bridges can be made from gold alloys, porcelain or a combination of these materials. They usually last five to seven years before they need to be replaced.

To care properly for your bridge, brush your teeth twice a day and regular flossing is important to make sure your gums remain healthy. Also, maintain regular cleanings and examinations with your dentist to keep your smile healthy and long lasting.

Dental Implants

If a tooth is missing, your dentist will likely recommend an implant-supported restoration. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone to replace the root of your missing tooth. An abutment is then attached to the implant and a crown is placed over the abutment to complete the restoration. Your dentist will be able to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants after an initial consultation. If you are good candidate for dental implants, they will serve to restore your smile for years to come.

The benefits of dental implants are overwhelming. In addition to restoring your ability to speak and chew properly, they also prevent surrounding teeth from shifting out of place to fill the space left by a missing tooth. This can help prevent things like bone loss and tooth decay from occurring. Unlike dentures or bridges, implants are not removable and do not require special care beyond brushing and flossing. For patients looking for a more permanent solution to missing teeth, dental implants may be an ideal option.

How do Bridges and Implants differ?

There are some differences between dental implants and bridges. Dental implants are individual titanium posts that can be used to replace one missing tooth or multiple ones in a row. An implant is placed in the bone where the root once was and allowed to heal for up to six months before the final restoration can be attached. Implants are a permanent solution that can only be removed by a dentist. Bridges are removable appliances that can stay in place between five and seven years before needing to be replaced. During your regular visits, your dentist will check your bridge for signs of damage and replace it as necessary.

Both options replace missing teeth and are a good option if you are concerned about the appearance of your smile. Your dentist can help you determine which option is right for you based on the condition of your oral health and the look you are hoping to achieve.

Call our office today at (825) 467-8888 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jennifer Nguyen! We are conveniently located at 4224 Gateway Blvd NW in Edmonton, Alberta. We are open regular business hours including Monday evenings and select Saturdays.