If you have damaged or missing teeth, the dentists at Smile Solutions of Maine in Waterville and Winthrop, ME, will help you understand your options and how to replace your missing teeth. Three of the most common prosthetic tooth options are crowns, bridges, and implants. These treatments are a great dental solution if you’re a good candidate for them.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dental treatments are procedures that fix your broken, decayed, or missing teeth. Different options include dental fillings, implants, crowns, and bridges. Dental restorations are the best way to keep your oral health in check after tooth loss or experiencing severe tooth decay. Not replacing missing teeth causes the surrounding teeth to shift, altering your smile and facial appearance and possibly leading to further damage. Every tooth in our mouth serves a purpose. For example, teeth that are positioned in the front of our mouth such as the incisors are meant for lighter forces vs back teeth such as the molars are meant for chewing harder types of foods.
What is a Dental Crown?
A crown is a durable cap covering up and protecting a severely damaged or weakened tooth. A crown can also be attached to a dental implant, replacing a missing tooth. A dental implant is surgically inserted into your jaw bone, allowing it to heal and fuse with the bone. A crown can be securely attached to the post when the healing time is over.
Dental crowns are typically recommended for people who have a single damaged tooth that needs protection to prevent the need for extraction. They can last for decades if you take good care of them. Dental insurance plans typically cover some of the cost of dental crown procedures.
What is a Dental Bridge?
In the event that you do need an extraction or already have a gap in your smile from a missing tooth, a fixed bridge could be the solution.
A dental bridge consists of replacement teeth attached to the two surrounding healthy teeth on either side of the gap using two dental crowns. A dental bridge could also be fixed onto dental implants. Dental bridges are suitable for people missing several teeth in a row. They are not removable, like dentures, so they get cemented and stay firmly in your mouth, restoring the function and appearance of your missing teeth. Some dental insurance plans could partially cover the cost of a dental bridge.
Dental Crowns and Bridges in Waterville and Winthrop, Maine
If you want to know more about crowns or bridges, please schedule a consultation at Smile Solutions of Maine. We have the advanced dental technology necessary to provide top-quality teeth replacement options. Your smile will be in good hands!