If you have lost a tooth, you may be wondering what your options are for successfully replacing them. Continue reading to learn of 5 ways to replace a missing tooth.
Dental Options for Replacing Missing Tooth
Partial Denture
Partial dentures are dental prosthetics that are typically made of acrylic, metal or a combination of both.
Partial dentures clip into place around anchor teeth in the mouth, providing a false tooth to fill the space left by the missing natural tooth. They can easily be removed and placed back inside the mouth.
Traditional Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a three (or more) unit crown that is designed to fill a space in the smile line. Two caps on either side of the bridge are placed directly over the top of two natural anchor teeth. In the center, a false tooth known as the pontic fills the smile line and provides the look and feel of a natural tooth.
Dental Implant
Dental implants are titanium devices that are placed directly into the jaw bone to replace the roots of a missing tooth. Over the top of the implant, a crown is placed to fill the smile line. They look and function just like natural teeth, and require no alterations to the surrounding teeth.
Flipper
A flipper operates much like a partial denture in that it is a removable acrylic device that clips into place and provides a false tooth to fill the space left by a missing tooth.
The main difference between a flipper and a partial denture is that a flipper is a small prosthetic, typically only consisting of the false tooth and one or two clasps. Flippers are a smaller and more discrete option.
Implant Bridge
An implant bridge functions much like a traditional dental bridge, with one large difference; rather than simply allowing the pontic to rest on the gum line between the two anchor teeth, the pontic is supported by an implant.
This is ideal, as the presence of the implant in the jaw bone helps prevent the bone from receding over time. It also provides a stable and secure base for the bridge – as long as the patient maintains healthy bone levels.
Best Dentist in Ingleside, Tx
Here at Palm Tree Dental, we are dedicated to helping our patients achieve the beautiful and healthy smiles of their dreams.
For the best dental treatment in Ingleside, Texas, trust our team of experienced professionals. We work hard to make sure that you are comfortable during your treatment from start to finish, and always completely satisfied with your treatment.
For more information about replacing a missing tooth or to get scheduled for an appointment in our Ingleside dental office, give us a call anytime at 361-238-4460.