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There are times in patients’ lives when they may be faced with tooth loss. Whether it is because of trauma, disease, or extraction, lost teeth can wreak havoc on the smile if not restored as soon as possible. The spaces left from missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift out of place, thus resulting in the development of gaps. Dr. Carl McMillan and the team of Holistic Dental Centers can help patients in repairing their smiles. They offer three primary methods of achieving a fully functional, beautiful smile after tooth loss:
Dentures are beneficial because they are removable and economical. Dental implants are the best for patients who are seeking a permanent solution to their tooth loss. However, patients seeking something less expensive than dental implants may want to consider dental bridges.
Dental bridges are restorations that are fabricated from porcelain to replace one or more teeth in a row. False teeth called pontics are fabricated and fused to dental crowns on each side. The bridge is bonded over the surrounding teeth for support, allowing the false teeth (pontics) to float above the gum line.
Bridges do require extra care, but can last a long time with proper maintenance. Patients must floss underneath their bridge to ensure no plaque, tartar, bacteria, or food particles are trapped between the bridge and the gum tissue. It is also strongly encouraged that patients maintain their regular dental recall appointments with Dr. Carl McMillan, as the teeth underneath the dental bridge are still susceptible to concerns such as decay and disease. X-rays will be taken regularly to ensure there are no cavities developing on the remaining tooth structure under the bridge.
Dr. Carl McMillan and the team of Holistic Dental Centers can help patients in achieving beautiful smiles after tooth loss with dental bridges or other restorative solutions. Contact us today to book a consultation appointment and examination to learn more about the options available for the replacement of missing teeth.