In the previous blog we briefly discussed about the various options a patient has to replace missing teeth. In this blog we will elaborate on the fixed prosthetic options. To recap, fixed options are like the name describes “fixed” and cannot be taken in and out of the mouth by the patient. The two options are explained in detail below:
What is a dental bridge?
A bridge consists of placing a crown (“cap”) over the teeth next to your missing tooth. A false tooth (called a pontic) is fused to the crowns to replace any missing tooth. The crowns on healthy teeth hold the false tooth (pontic) in place hence closing the gap. Like crowns, bridges come in several different types, including porcelain to metal, all gold, or all porcelain.
Also like getting a crown, a bridge requires at least two dental visits. At your first appointment, the teeth surrounding your missing tooth are prepared, an impression is made, and you will be fitted with a temporary. Then our on-site dental lab will custom fabricate your bridge. At your seat appointment, the bridge is tried in and bite refined. Then the bridge is cemented with a special permanent dental “cement”. Our on-site dental lab is able to adjust shading and fit issues at your seat appointment, preventing you from having to wait for another appointment to complete treatment.
Once the bridge is placed, it cannot be taken out without the help of your dentist. After the bridge is cemented, your dentist will advise on proper care for the bridge and the teeth underneath it. In absence of good oral hygiene, the anchor teeth holding the bridge can get decay. Hence it is very important to maintain good oral hygiene.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is another option to replace missing teeth. Placing a dental implant involves an oral surgery procedure during which the implant is inserted into the jaw. The implant is made of a very bio-compatible material called titanium. It allows the formation of the bond between the bone and the implant itself.
The entire process of replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant may take anywhere from 4-12 months depending on various factors as determined by your surgeon. However the benefits of dental implants can be summarized as easier care, better nutrition and minimal impact to the surrounding teeth.
In the next series we will learn about the removable prosthetics.