A missing tooth can present a problem, especially if it is one of the front teeth, making it very noticeable when you smile, and there are several methods a dentist can use to remedy the situation, depending on the location of the missing tooth and the condition of the person’s teeth. For those who would like to replace that missing tooth (or teeth), here are the most popular ways of restoring your smile to its former glory.
- Removable Partial Denture – This consists of a plate that has the missing tooth attached, and it can be removed for cleaning. Most people would require some dental adhesive to keep the plate in place, and this is sometimes used as a temporary measure when a person is waiting for the gums to heal, and will then have a dental implant fitted. If you live in Brisbane, there is an experienced Mitchelton dentist who can examine you and offer a cost-effective solution.
- A Bridge – This option can be used when there is a tooth either side of the missing one, and it involves grinding down the left and right teeth to create anchor points, and then the bridge is attached. Many dentists would not recommend this method, as it means destroying two healthy teeth to replace one. Modern techniques include dental implants, and providing the gums are of sufficient thickness, this is a much preferred solution, as it is permanent, and does not affect any other teeth.
- Temporary Denture – This is used when a patient is awaiting either an implant of bridge treatment, neither of which can be completed in one appointment, and during the time the person has to wait, they would wear a temporary denture, which would come in the form of a removable plate. It is important for the patient to be able to continue their like unhindered, and the temporary denture allows that. If you are unsure about what to do about your missing tooth, there are several useful articles that look deeply at all the available options.
- Dental Implant – Using titanium screws that bond with bone and tissue over time, the dental implant is by far the best solution, and while being expensive when compared to other techniques, it does offer a permanent solution. The dentist would need to X-ray the patient’s jaw, to ascertain whether or not the jawbone is of sufficient thickness to accommodate the implant, and more often than not, dental implants are possible.
Of course, a lot depends on the location of the missing tooth, but if it affects your smile, then it is worth investigating the possible solutions. An experienced dentist would be able to advise you on the best option, and if you are not familiar with a dental clinic in your area, an online search will soon put that right. Recent developments in dental implant technology make it a very attractive proposition, with a one-time fitting and lifelong durability, and if you can’t afford that at the moment, have a temporary denture fitted and go with the implant when you are ready.
