The loss of a tooth could place some psychological stress on an individual. It is however comforting to know that there are several artificial replacements available when a tooth is lost. Replacing a missing tooth is necessary in restoring its function and aesthetics.
Tooth loss could be as a result of:
Tooth loss could be as a result of:
- Direct trauma sustained during falls, fights or accidents.
- A tooth becoming loose and falling out as a result of gum disease.
- Removal of a bad/infected tooth by a dentist.
Many do not know it is possible to replace their missing tooth/teeth so they simply go about their daily activities flashing the empty space.
Options available for Tooth replacement include:
- Dentures: these are removable plastic teeth with either metallic or plastic base that are worn on a daily basis. Dentures require cleaning regularly so food particles do not accumulate. It is the cheapest type of replacement.
- Bridges: these are fixed replacements. The tooth/teeth adjacent to the missing tooth is prepared and made to carry the replacement and the bridge is cemented onto the adjacent teeth with a dental cement. This option is quite affordable and requires more chair side time.
- Dental Implants: are fixed dental prosthesis that are sunk into the bone. An implant has a metallic component usually titanium which is placed in the bone surgically and a ceramic component which is the crown. Implants though expensive feel more like natural teeth.
Many times, the size of your pocket will determine which of the options you’ll go for. A well fixed artificial tooth will almost pass for a natural one.
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