When you need to have either a tooth, or multiple teeth removed, there may be options for you to choose from. The most common options are usually a bridge, and implants. You can speak with an Old Town Chicago dentist to determine which option is better for you. Bridges are typically more common because you must meet certain criteria to receive implants.
Bridges
Receiving a bridge requires work being done to both teeth on either side of your missing tooth. When you decide to receive a bridge, your dentist will first have to remove enamel from the teeth on both sides of your missing tooth or teeth. They remove enamel so that they can easily place a crown on top of these teeth. They will also take impressions of your teeth so they can make custom crowns, a bridge, and false teeth to fit your mouth.
While your crowns, bridge and false teeth are being made, your dentist will place a temporary bridge in its’ place. You will visit your dentist again to have your new bridge and crowns placed. Your bridge may have to be adjusted multiple times to ensure it is in correctly. The amount of times it will need to be adjusted varies by person. Once the bridge is in the correct place, your dentist will cement it there to keep it in place.
Implants
To receive dental implants, your dentist will need to make sure your jaw bones and gums can handle the procedure. One of the advantages of choosing implants is that the adjacent teeth to your missing tooth don’t need to be worked on at all. The disadvantage is that not everyone qualifies for implants. Your dentist will place a screw into your gums that will bond to your jawbone to mimic the root of a tooth. It can take a few weeks to a few months for the implant to heal properly. Once the implant is healed, your dentist can place the crown or false tooth on top of the implant. Another great thing about implants is that you can eat and drink whatever you would like to, there are no restrictions like there is with dentures.
