There are a lot of treatment options for you to replace missing teeth.
Bridges
A bridge is a realistic-looking section of synthetic teeth used to “bridge the gap” left by missing teeth. They are made of porcelain, gold alloys, or a combination of materials.
Benefits
- Natural look and feel
- Properly distribute the force of your bite
- Prevent remaining teeth from moving
- Restore your speech and chewing abilities
Process
1st Visit – The teeth surrounding the gap are prepared for crowns and impressions are made. A temporary bridge is placed to protect your teeth and gums.
2nd Visit – The bridge will be adjusted to fit your mouth. A fixed bridge may be temporarily cemented into place.
3rd Visit – Follow-up may be needed to check the bridge or permanently cement your fixed bridge into place.
Had a bridge put in and not sure what to do now that you’re home? Read our Post-Op Instructions.
Implants
Implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jaw that act as a foundation for a crown. They’re made of titanium and materials compatible with your body.
Benefits
- Look and feel like a natural tooth
- Easy to brush and floss
- Preserves jaw bone
- Long lasting
- Stable
Candidate Requirements
- Proper bone density
- Strong immune system
- Excellent oral hygiene
Process
Surgery – The implant is placed in the jawbone during surgery.
Wait – The bone surrounding the implants “integrates” with the titanium surface by growing around it. (This could take up to several months).
Completion – An abutment (or post) is made to attach to the implant and a crown is placed over the abutment.
Got an implant and not sure what to do now that you’re home? Read our Post-Op Instructions.
Dentures
Dentures are synthetic removable teeth and gum tissue. If you’ve lost your teeth, dentures will allow you to eat and speak better than without teeth.
Options
- Conventional/Immediate: Any remaining natural teeth are removed and a full, removable denture is placed in your mouth.
- Overdenture: This appliance fits over a small number of natural teeth remaining in your mouth.
- All-on-4: Four implants are placed and a full denture is immediately inserted and fixed to the implants.
- Partial: A small removable denture for several missing teeth.
Got dentures and not sure what to do now that you’re home? Read our Post-Op Instructions.
For information on how to care for your dentures, read our Dentures Care Instructions.