Having a full, healthy smile can make you feel confident and look healthy. When you have missing teeth, it can lead you to have lower self-esteem and affect your well-being. Luckily, there is a way to fill the gap left behind. If you have several missing teeth in a row, dental bridges can restore the area. Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, also offers implants. This method of restoration replaces the root and crown of the tooth, which promotes bone growth and gives you a natural-looking, full smile.
Read more: Implants: A Sturdy Replacement For A Lost ToothComparing Implants And Dental Bridges
There are quite a few differences between these restorations. Bridges are prosthetics used to replace up to three teeth in a row. They are held in place by the adjacent teeth and are permanently fixed. It will take a few appointments for both restorations to be placed, but bridges can often be completed in around three to four weeks.
On the contrary, implants can take several months to finish the process. Instead of being held in place by other teeth, a post is inserted into the jawbone. Then, an abutment and crown will be secured on top. The crown is a prosthetic piece that looks like your natural tooth, and the root connects to the gumline and prevents bone loss. This option will require surgery, whereas bridges require less invasive preparation.
Placing The Implant
As mentioned above, this can be a months-long process. After a consultation with your dentist to ensure you are a good fit for this restoration, the process can begin. The first step is to have the post inserted below the gumline. In some cases, the remaining part of a tooth will first need to be removed. There will be a healing time between this surgery and the next steps. The bone and post will need to fuse before moving forward. Once this happens, the abutment can be secured, and the crown can be added. The prosthetic will appear lifelike and should last for several years with proper care.
Restorations Available Besides Implants
Even with preventive care, you may need to fix a broken or harmed tooth. We have several ways to repair your smile. If you are experiencing tooth decay, a filling can be used to stop the progression of a cavity. Damage from injuries, grinding, or other accidents, can be solved with a dental crown. This is a tooth-shaped cap that is cemented to the area to protect it from further harm or infection.
Schedule A Consultation Today
Implants can restore your smile after loss. To find out if this restoration is a good option for you, schedule an appointment with Dental Impressions at Ankeny, IA, today by calling 515.965.0230.
