Do you have a full complement of teeth or did you have one or two of them removed in the dim and distant past? Many people are in your position but may want to get back to normal so that they can be proud of their smile once again and, importantly, chew their food effectively. Somebody may have told you that you need to have a bridge installed to fix your issue, but you might want to consider a different approach. What are your options?
Bridge Versus Implant
Certainly, a dentist may consider installing a bridge in some circumstances and it is a perfectly viable option. However, you might like to consider getting a single tooth implant instead, as it won't have to rely on the structure around it so much. Whenever a bridge is fitted, the teeth that surround the gap must be altered to accommodate the device. Usually, this will mean that the surface has to be ground down to an extent to give these teeth the capacity to support their new neighbour.
With a bridge, the new tooth does not actually penetrate the gum or bone underneath it but is supported by the bridge on top. It may be better to consider an implant instead, as this helps to preserve the bone structure and can create a stronger overall support network.
Weighing the Options
Your dentist will be best placed to discuss these options with you, but remember that in some cases the patient may find a bridge to be a little more difficult to manage over the long term. Sometimes the gums can recede to an extent and part of the bridge may become exposed. In this case, bacteria can get into hard-to-reach places and be difficult to deal with.
How Is an Implant Fitted?
This situation does not arise with an implant, as it is a stand-alone option. The dentist will prepare the area by embedding a base into the bone structure, into which the implant will be fixed. This will happen in two separate steps, as the insert will have to heal before the new tooth can be introduced. In the meantime, your dentist will give you a temporary replacement so that you can get on with life.
On your final visit to the dentist, the crown is attached to a metal or titanium post which will be inserted into the base to create a long-lasting replacement. This looks and feels just like the other teeth that surround it.
Make sure that you discuss your options with a dentist as you consider tooth replacement services.
