Losing a tooth can be distressing and have a negative effect on your confidence, causing you to feel anxious or worried about having a gap in your mouth. Don’t worry! There are many ways to solve this problem and an experienced dentist can help you to feel better about yourself and your teeth.
What Can a Dentist do for a Missing Tooth?
If you have lost one or more teeth due to accident or illness, you will need to talk to a dentist about the options for filling the gap. Your dentist will discuss the options with you and you may be offered:
- Dentures. A denture is a plate, usually made of plastic, with false teeth set into it. These are fully removable for cleaning and care and will feel comfortable and look natural in your mouth when fitted correctly.
- Bridges. Bridges are made of metal or porcelain and attach to your permanent teeth either side of the gap. Bridge crowns are permanently cemented to a false tooth, which is placed in the gap, for a long-term solution to a missing tooth.
- Dental implants. Dental implants are titanium posts, which are positioned beneath the gum to replace missing teeth. These posts mimic the roots of the missing tooth/teeth and are finished with crowns, to create a visible tooth. Dentures and bridges can also be fitted to implants.
Who Can Have Dental Implants?
If you have healthy gums and enough bone to support the implant, you’ll find that dental implants are a great option that will look and feel great. Over time, the implants will integrate into the jawline, fusing with the jawbone to give good support to artificial teeth. Well-fitted implants won’t move in the mouth while eating or speaking, and do not affect the healthy teeth on either side of the gap, which are often filed or ground away to support bridges.
How Can I Get Dental Implants?
Your dentist will be able to work with you or refer you to a specialist to solve the problem of missing teeth. Firstly, you need to arrange a consultation with an experienced dentist, such as the practitioners at Guiney Dental Practice in Cork, and then you will be able to discuss your options in detail. Some cases may be better suited to a certain type of replacement tooth and implants may not work in every situation, but your dentist will be able to take x-rays and examine your teeth to find the best solution for you.
Visit Your Family Dentist in Ballincollig, Cork
A great dentist will have only one goal: to give you the smile you want. Replacing missing teeth and creating comfortable, lasting solutions for you is all part of the service when you visit your family-friendly dentist at Guiney Dental Practice. Discuss your needs with our experienced team and arrange a consultation by calling today on 021-481 0535.