Thanks to the tremendous advances in technology over the last 30 years, there are now more options than ever for restoring your smile. Whether your concerns are cosmetic, functional, or both, you can now objectively weigh your options to find the solution that is most suitable for you.
In terms of tooth replacement, there are some traditional solutions such as dental bridges that are still effective for restoring the space left by a missing tooth. However, dentists and patients are recognizing the increasing advantages of more modern solutions such as dental implants.
For most patients who are missing a single tooth, dental implants have established a sound reputation for success. Your implant dentist can provide a wealth of information as to how dental implants can be utilized to address your individual needs.
In some instances, a traditional dental bridge can be used to fill the void left by a missing tooth and restore your biting surface. Several decades ago, this solution was considered to be the high standard in tooth replacement. As you consider this solution, it is important to identify and understand some of the bridge’s inherent short-comings. Choosing a dental bridge requires the removal of a significant amount of natural tooth structure. Also, the bridge does not include a replacement tooth root to extend into the underlying bone.
Although the dental bridge is still considered to be an acceptable choice for tooth replacement, many of its disadvantages can be overcome with dental implants. Dental implants are considerably more conservative, since your implant dentist will not have to remove any natural tooth structure. The implant is also designed to mimic the design of a natural tooth, including the biting surface as well as the tooth root. The presence of the tooth root provides the support that is necessary to maintain the surrounding bone structure while also distributing chewing forces.
In choosing to replace a single tooth, the dental implant has quickly replaced the dental bridge as the highest standard of care. To learn more about your options in the Old Bethpage NY area, contact Broadway Dental at 516-681-2525 to schedule an appointment.