No one wants to have a missing tooth, but the reality is there’s a decent chance it may happen at some point. Whether it’s via a tooth extraction or an accident, the good news is people in Aurora have options to replace their missing tooth. The worst thing that an Aurora resident can do is ignore a missing tooth since there are long-term health consequences a person would have to face. The recommended thing to do is visit a reputable dentist or oral surgeon to discuss the options available. Here are some of the most common options available for patients missing a tooth or multiple teeth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge utilizes natural teeth on either side of the area of the missing tooth in order to bridge the gap between them. An artificial tooth is placed in the gap and is held in place by the bridge. While dental bridges can be effective in some situations, they are generally not as effective or convenient as dental implants. One of the main downfalls is not stimulating bone growth in the area where the artificial tooth is placed, which could lead to shifting teeth and other consequences.
Dentures
Dentures are commonly used when the entire upper or lower row of teeth need to be replaced, but they can also be used for replacing individual teeth. Dentures are simply artificial removable teeth to enhance and replace a missing tooth. Many people in Aurora like dentures since they are quick and easy to install, but can be a bit of a hassle to clean and use on a daily basis.
Dental Implants
In most cases, a dentist or oral surgeon will recommend dental implants for patients in Aurora needing to replace a missing tooth. Dental implants provide a permanent option for missing teeth, and the look and feel are almost identical to natural teeth. And possibly the best part about dental implants is they stimulate jawbone growth to promote better overall oral health for years to come.
What’s the Best Option for Patients?
Every patient’s situation is different, but almost every person will benefit from dental implants. When compared to the other options for tooth replacement, dental implants are more convenient and do not require any alterations to a person’s regular routines, like eating, brushing, flossing and other habits. With all else being equal, the convenience factor is one of the main advantages patients enjoy about implants.
Since dental implants look, feel and act like normal teeth, patients sometimes even forget they had them installed over time. And even better, other people likely won’t even realize a person has a dental implant since experienced oral surgeons can make the implant look almost exactly like their other natural teeth.
Ivey Oral & Facial Surgery wants to ensure every patient in Aurora knows their options when they have a missing tooth. Dr. Austin Ivey specializes in dental implants, which is generally the optimal option for patients having missing teeth.
To learn more about your options and to be on the right track to great overall oral health, contact us at (303) 494-1933 today to schedule a free consultation.
