Dental Bridge Alternatives

If you are missing some teeth, it’s important that you speak with your dentist right away so this problem can be addressed as soon as possible. There are multiple reasons for this. For one, there are many cosmetic problems associated with missing teeth. Many people who are missing some teeth tend to cover their mouths when they speak, smile, or laugh because they feel self-conscious about the appearance of their smile.

There are various dental health issues to keep in mind as well. A big one is bit strength and the ability to chew. People who are missing multiple teeth will notice that chewing is not as easy as it used to be, and that some foods that they used to enjoy can no longer be eaten. In addition to this, you have to take into account gradual tooth misalignment which can take place when there are gaps between teeth. The same concern needs to be extended to the loss of bone density in the jaw and gum recession. These occur because the structures of the mouth no longer have to support any root structure.

When you visit Lexington, KY cosmetic dentist Dr. David Cash, he will be able to determine the best possible treatment option to meet your needs. In some cases, this will involve dental bridges. Dental bridges are removable dental restorations that are used to bridge the gap between teeth. This involves the use of artificial teeth that are crafted to look natural. They are held in place using brackets that clasp onto adjacent tooth structure.

Now, while dental bridges are quite effective, there are alternatives that you need to consider. One alternative is dentures. Dentures are similar to dental bridges in that they are artificial teeth. Rather than adjoining to adjacent teeth, though, dentures are held in place using gum structure. Denture creams may be used to improve this support. Generally dentures are a better option when a person is missing several teeth in a row and does not have sufficient tooth structure remaining to support a bridge.

Another alternative that is worth considering is getting dental implants to support a denture or dental bridge. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into your jawbone and gum tissue. This will involve oral surgery and a months-long recovery process, but when this is accomplished, the dental implants will be just like natural tooth roots, ready to support individual dental crowns, a dental bridge, or dentures.

The hold of the Lexington, KY dental implants will be much more secure than the clasps and dentures creams of traditional dental restorations. And since the dental implants will be integrated into the bone and gum tissue of the mouth, any worries with bone loss or gum recession will be eliminated.

If you would like more information about dental implants, dental bridges, dentures, or your many other options for enhanced dental health, please contact our Lexington cosmetic and restorative dentistry practice today. Dr. Cash looks forward to discussing your dental health concerns with you.