So, you have recently lost a tooth, and you want to know your options for replacement. We understand that tooth loss can be frustrating and, in many cases, can make you feel self-conscious in your appearance. Even a single gap in your smile can make it difficult to speak clearly and chew many of your favorite foods. Dr. Dexter in Prairie Village, KS, can examine the area and determine what the best method for replacing your lost tooth may be. This could be a partial denture, implant, or dental bridge. In today’s blog, we’re here to explain how a crown and bridge can help restore your smile.
The Purpose Of A Dental Crown
A dental crown is a tooth shaped cap that can be placed over your natural dental structure for protection. In many cases, this restoration is used to repair weakened, worn down, or broken teeth. This may be used to help patients who have worn down their teeth due to bruxism or other conditions. After you have found a diagnosis and helpful treatment for the chronic teeth grinding problem, a cap can be added over the worn down structure to prevent sensitivity and further damage. This restoration can also be used in combination with a dental bridge to replace several lost teeth in the same row.
How A Bridge Renew Your Smile
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth replacement option that “bridges” the gap left from your missing teeth. To create this prosthesis, your dentist will first examine your smile and take an impression of your oral cavity. It will then be crafted in a lab to match your needs precisely. Before the prosthesis is secured in place, your dentist may choose to add crowns to the adjacent teeth so that the bridge can be properly supported. The caps can help support the prosthesis and protect the natural teeth from being worn down. This prosthetic option can help replace a single missing tooth or up to three in the same row. Unlike dentures, you will not need to remove this set of false teeth to clean at night.
Don’t Ignore A Missing Tooth
Many people believe that they do not need to seek prosthodontic care if they are only missing a single tooth. However, the truth is even one missing dental structure can be harmful to your future oral health. Whether you have lost your pearly white due to an accidental injury or periodontal disease, you should see your dentist as soon as possible to discuss your options. Long term tooth loss can lead to your teeth shifting out of place, gum recession, bone loss, and many more concerns.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Team!
Dr. Dexter and his team in Prairie Village, KS, are experienced in replacing missing teeth. To learn more about your options, call us today at 913-362-8200.