Missing Teeth: Replacing Them is Easier Than Ever

I have always been an avid hockey player, and my love took a bad turn one day when I got struck in the mouth with the puck. It was a painful moment that left me with two teeth knocked out of my mouth. Had I taken the right steps after the accident, I could have possibly saved the teeth, but I did not know I had that option at the time. Thankfully, I worked up the courage to visit a dentist and ask what my options for teeth-replacement were. I was worried I would would have to live the rest of my life without smiling, but I was ecstatic to learn that I was the perfect candidate for dental implants. I created this blog to help others realize that there are so many options to replace missing teeth today that no one has to "just live with" an imperfect smile!

Two Reasons You May Want To Opt For An Implant-Supported Bridge

Dentist Blog

Dental bridges typically use the natural teeth surrounding a gap to anchor the appliance in place. This allows the bridge to cover more than one empty space at a time, unlike dental implants. However, sometimes a dentist will recommend getting an implant-supported dental bridge rather than use the natural teeth. Here are two reasons you may want to agree to this option:

No Deterioration Over Time

The main problem with using natural teeth as anchors for dental bridges is they deteriorate over time. There are a couple of reasons why this occurs. First, the dentist must reduce the size of the tooth to ensure the anchor crown fits on top of it. This involves filing away much of the tooth's enamel, which is designed to protect it from environmental elements and direct impact. The interior of the tooth isn't as strong as the enamel, which increases the risk of breakage.

Second, although the dentist installs the crown so that it sits flush against the gums, a space may form between them over time due to age, periodontal disease, or other factors. As a result, food and other debris often find its way between the cracks where it sits on the exposed part of the natural tooth and causes cavities and other structural damage.

As a result, the natural teeth eventually become unable to support the dental bridge any longer, which may lead to the appliance falling out.

Because dental implants are made from a strong synthetic material, it's not as impacted by the biological processes that go on inside the mouth. For instance, oral bacteria can't cause cavities in the surface of the crown or the implant post because it's not a biological substance. Additionally, dental implants don't deteriorate over time, so you don't have to worry about the tooth rotting away under the crown.

Dental Implants are Stronger Than Regular Teeth

Another reason why you may want to opt for an implant-supported bridge is that implants are generally stronger and can withstand more chewing force than natural teeth that have been altered. As mentioned previously, the dentist must reduce the size of the natural teeth so that they fit inside the crown. Though this can weaken them, you generally shouldn't experience any problems eating as long as you avoid chewing hard items, such as almonds.

However, the dental appliance supported by natural teeth may not last long if you have a problem with grinding your teeth or just can't stay away from those hard foods. On the other hand, dental implant posts are made of titanium and designed to endure the normal human chewing forces. So the dental appliance will typically last longer when subjected to continuous or excessive force, though you want to avoid that issues as much as you possibly can.

There are some drawbacks to using implant-supported dental bridges too, such as it can take awhile for the implant to integrate into the jawbone. Discuss the pros and cons of getting this dental appliance with your dentist to ensure it's the right option for you. You can also check out a website like http://premierdentalgrp.com/ for more information. 

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2 December 2017