Missing teeth are replaced with an implant, a bridge or a denture. An implant replaces the root with a post in the jaw and leaves the neighboring teeth alone. A bridge fills the gap with artificial teeth anchored to the teeth beside it. A denture is removable and replaces a few teeth (partial) or a whole arch (full). The choice depends on how many teeth are missing, your jawbone, your gums and the remaining teeth.
What does a dental implant involve?
An implant is a post placed in the jawbone that acts as an artificial root; an abutment connects it to a crown, bridge or denture. It needs enough healthy jawbone and good oral health; active gum disease, severe bone loss, unmanaged diabetes and smoking can rule it out or delay it. The bone takes about three to nine months to fuse with the implant. Its main advantage is that the neighboring teeth are left untouched.
When does a bridge make sense?
A bridge replaces one or more teeth with artificial teeth held by the teeth beside the gap. It is fixed and usually quicker than an implant, but the anchor teeth have to be healthy and are reshaped for crowns, which removes enamel. Bridges typically last 5 to 15 years, and they need careful cleaning underneath.
Who are dentures for?
A full denture replaces all the teeth in an arch; a partial denture fills gaps between the teeth you still have. New dentures can feel awkward for a few weeks. As the mouth changes, especially after extractions, a denture may need relining or remaking. Overdentures fit over remaining teeth or implants for more stability.
What does our office offer?
At our Deerfield Beach office we offer dental implants, All-on-4 implants for a full arch, dental and porcelain bridges, full and partial dentures and the Snap-On Smile. An exam, including x-rays, shows which options your jawbone and remaining teeth allow.
General information, not a diagnosis. Questions about your own teeth: call Dr. Angela Berkovich, DMD at (954) 427-3000. For facial swelling, a fever or trouble breathing or swallowing, seek urgent medical care.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic: Dental Implants: Types, Purpose & Benefits
- Cleveland Clinic: Dental Bridges: Types & Who Needs Them
- American Dental Association (MouthHealthy): Dentures