One missing tooth can throw your entire oral harmony out of whack, so there’s no question that you should have the tooth replaced. But as with most dental treatment, you have options. Our doctor offers traditional crown and bridgework, commonly called a bridge, or single tooth replacement with a dental implant. Don’t let dental prosthetics intimidate you. We’re talking about your health and your mouth, so you should know the facts.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge consists of a few replacement teeth connected together. In most cases, if you need a single tooth replaced, the bridge will feature two crowns with a solid replacement tooth between them. Why three teeth? The two end crowns fit onto the existing teeth on either side of the space left by your missing tooth. These two adjacent teeth are called abutment teeth, and the crowns are abutment crowns. To hold the non-removable (fixed) bridge in place, the abutment teeth are reduced and crowned with the abutment crowns. While the dental bridge has a long history of success, Our doctor wants you to know about a more conservative option: the dental implant.
Unlike a bridge, an implant is independently anchored into the jaw. Our doctor works with respected oral surgeons and periodontists in an interdisciplinary approach to implant dentistry. As your general dentist, Our doctor will oversee your implant case, coordinate treatment with the surgeon, and design your replacement tooth. He uses dental labs known for their exquisite, lifelike, well-fitting restorations.
After an initial exam and case planning, you’ll undergo a brief oral surgery in which a small dental implant post will be secured into the socket left by your missing tooth. Bone tissue will naturally fuse to the biocompatible post and create a strong anchor for your new tooth. You may wear a temporary until your mouth has healed and can support the final restoration. When you’re ready, Our doctor will secure the dental implant restoration to the post, and your smile will be strong and complete once again.
Benefits of Single-Tooth Dental Implants
- Dependable, solid, permanent prosthetic
- No reduction and crowning of abutment teeth
- Implants stimulate bone, so degeneration is not a concern
- Implants can last a lifetime with proper oral health care
- No special care or maintenance is required
- Looks and feels natural
Call Dental office in Park City, KS today at (316) 260-6868 to schedule your complimentary dental implant consultation.
Here at Park City Dental in Park City, KS, our staff cares for your oral health, which is why we are happy to invite you in for a dental checkup. You can click here to view where our office is located or give us a call at (316) 260-6868 to talk with a member of our staff. You can also click here to schedule your next appointment.
