When people imagine having one or two missing teeth, oftentimes their first thought is about the immense self-consciousness they would feel about their appearance. Although having a gap in one’s smile can make him or her feel uncomfortable or embarrassed, there are actually a number of other problems that can result from the missing teeth. One of the most significant problems that can arise from having one or more missing teeth is a change in bite called occlusion. Teeth occlusions are problematic for people because they cause speech impediments, tooth decay, and other dental issues. So what is the best option for people who suffer from missing teeth? Visit the skilled orthodontists here at Cosmetic Dental Association.
When patients who are missing teeth come into our dental office, we often offer them two different types of treatment: dental bridges or dental implants. Although both of these treatments can help missing gaps in patients’ smiles, they do vary slightly so it is important for patients to understand the process of each in order to decide which procedure is best for their needs.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges fix gaps in teeth by permanently adjoining the teeth surrounding the gap with each other by using caps and dental implants. There are various types of dental bridges including conventional fixed bridges, cantilever bridges and resin-bonded bridges. If the missing tooth is in the front or the teeth surrounding the gap are healthy, resin-bonded bridges are often suggested because they do not require the shaping and capping of the teeth around the missing tooth like the conventional fixed bridges and cantilever bridges do. Dental bridges are a great option for those looking for a permanent solution to the gap in their smiles without surgery.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are another popular option for those with missing teeth. Dental implants are root-form implants that dentists place inside of the gum to act as a “root” for the artificial tooth. Dental implants will look, act and feel like natural teeth. The biggest difference between this treatment and dental bridges is that bridges sit on top of the gap and the surrounding teeth, while an implant is surgically placed directly in the spot of the missing tooth.