Are you missing one or more teeth? You may have heard about a dental crown, but that’s not always an option. Dental crowns are designed to cover or cap an existing tooth, strengthening and protecting it for the future. If you’re missing one or more teeth, your dentist will recommend a dental implant or dental bridge. The solution that is best for you will depend on the number of teeth that you’re missing. Keep reading to learn more about these different tooth replacement options and when a dental crown is necessary.
Crown Your Tooth
Do you have cracked, weakened, sensitive, or misshapen teeth? If so, you could benefit from dental crowns. These are custom-made caps that are designed to cover the entire visible portion of your tooth, improving the feel, function, strength, and appearance of your smile. Dental crowns can also be used to support a dental bridge, and they can be mounted on top of dental implants. For a single missing tooth, a popular replacement is an implant-retained crown.
Bridge the Gap in Your Smile
Dental bridges are personalized prosthetics that can replace multiple teeth consecutively. They replace the visible portion of your tooth, using dental crowns on either side to support it. Your dentist will remove a slight portion of your dental structure surrounding the space, and then they’ll attach your custom-made bridge to complete your smile. This strong and sturdy restoration effectively replaces missing teeth without resorting to a denture.
Strong Dental Implants
A dental implant is the only way to replace your entire tooth from the roots up. Dental implants are small titanium posts that are surgically placed in your jaw to act as artificial tooth roots. Once placed, they’re a strong and stable support for restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. For just one missing tooth, your dentist can create a crown that matches the size, shape, and color of the rest of your smile, which can be mounted on top of your implant.
Additionally, if you want to receive a dental bridge without altering your remaining natural teeth, dental implants are the answer. With an implant on either side of the gap in your smile, the bridge won’t need dental crowns for support. If you’re missing all or most of your teeth, your dentist may recommend an implant-retained denture. This allows you to receive a full smile replacement, while also enjoying the strength and stability of dental implants. That means no slipping or shifting dentures and a varying diet.
Are you ready to see what option will work best with your smile? Contact your dentist in Wharton to get started on a strong and beautiful set of pearly whites.
Meet the Dentist
Even with decades of experience, Dr. David Tripulas continues to remain up to date on the latest in dentistry through involvement in various dental organizations. He wants his patients to receive the best care possible, which is why he offers a variety of treatment options for missing teeth. If you have any questions, he can be reached through his website or by phone at (979) 532-4663.