What Is a Dental Bridge? A Solution for Missing Teeth
Did you know that losing a tooth can have multiple effects? It can affect how you eat. It can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance and may even lower your self-esteem if you feel embarrassed to smile. The long-term effect of a missing tooth is progressive bone loss in your jaw where the tooth used to be. Have you recently lost a tooth (or teeth)? Taking care of that gap will help you avoid these effects. One of the treatment options available to repair a gap due to missing teeth is a dental bridge.
What is a dental bridge? How will it help to fix your teeth? What is the procedure like and what are the benefits of dental bridges?
Keep reading for the answers to all your questions and more.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A dental bridge is comprised of crowns that attach to the teeth surrounding a missing tooth or teeth. Bridges are permanent fixtures that appear and act like the teeth they are replacing. It is a prosthetic for the missing teeth.
The Types of Dental Bridges
There are four types of dental bridges:
- Traditional
- Cantilever
- Maryland
- Implant-supported
Traditional bridges can be constructed with metal, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. This most common bridge features crowns that attach to abutment teeth (the teeth surrounding the gap) to secure a replacement tooth (pontic) in place.
In a cantilever bridge, the pontic is only attached to a crown on one side of the tooth. This type of bridge is not very common, as it is not strong enough to support molars. It is typically used to replace a missing front tooth.
A Maryland bridge can be made of ceramic or porcelain fused to metal and is most often used to replace a missing front tooth. The Maryland bridge connects to the back of abutment teeth with wings secured with resin. This bridge is more conservative as the adjacent teeth do not need to be prepared for a crown.
An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge. However, instead of crowns holding the pontic in place, a dental implant holds the structure in place.
The Benefits of Dental Bridges
There are many reasons why you may have missing teeth. These include:
- Decay
- Periodontitis/gum disease
- Accidents/injuries
- Old age
- Medication side effect
Losing a tooth can do more than potentially making you feel self-conscious. Your bite may become uneven, affecting how you chew or talk. The teeth surrounding the missing tooth may start to tilt or rotate. Furthermore, you may begin to suffer from pain in your jaw.
Thankfully, bridges can help solve these problems. In addition to restoring your smile, bridges realign your bite or fix teeth that have become rotated or shifted. Bridges can also ensure that the bone in your jaw and your remaining teeth stay healthy and in place.
The Procedure for Installing a Dental Bridge
The dental bridge procedure is straightforward and usually requires at least two visits.
During the first visit, the dentist will remove enamel from the abutment teeth in preparation for receiving the crowns. The dentist will take an impression of the prepared teeth so the bridge, crowns, and pontic(s) can be made in a dental lab. At Cypress Dental, we use a CEREC Primescan AC intraoral scanner to create a digital scan of your teeth. Through taking a digital impression rather than a traditional impression, dental appointments become more comfortable, and the time needed to create the permanent crowns, bridges, and pontic(s) is significantly reduced. The patient will go home with a temporary crown that keeps everything in place until the permanent prosthesis can go in.
During the second visit, the permanent crowns, bridges, and pontic(s) are cemented in place. The dentist may use temporary cement first in case adjustments are need or if a patient needs to have a trail with the prosthesis. Once a proper fit is secured, the dentist will apply permanent cement.
Taking Care of Missing Teeth
To be a good candidate for a bridge to replace your missing teeth, you need to have both good oral health and good overall health. Your teeth and bone structure should be sturdy. Once you have a shiny, new bridge, you will need to practice good dental bridge maintenance. If you're looking to replace a missing tooth and you need a dentist in Vancouver, contact us today to make your dental bridge appointment.
Modern Dental Techniques vs. Dentistry Of Old
Dentistry has come a long way. When it comes to patient experience, it may have been painful and uncomfortable in the past. But with new dental innovations, patients are now much more comfortable during their dental appointments, and most procedures are pain-free. This article will talk about old dentistry vs. modern dental techniques.
What are Old Dental Practices Like?
Today, going to the dentist feels like a pampering session to some people. Dental chairs have padded headrests, and you can even watch TV. Years ago, you'll hear patients cringing in pain at the dental clinic and possibly full of dread thinking about their treatment.
There were also interesting theories about how cavities developed. In some places in China, Japan, and Greece, people had believed that cavities were caused by worms creating holes into and within your teeth, which we now know is not the case.
In Egypt, loose teeth were treated using honey, yellow ochre and ground barley. They use various drilling methods for tooth extraction, and you can imagine how painful this is without any anesthesia. It wasn't until 1550 B.C. that they discovered how to manage pain.
There was also a higher rate of morbidity from advanced dental infections due to the lack of proper treatment. Thankfully, dentistry has evolved and is significantly better today.
Modern Dental Care
Today, digital imaging is readily available, and it's incredibly helpful for diagnosing dental issues. Dentists can easily take X-rays of your teeth, save them, and compare them with past images to help monitor the progression of your dental health. 3D images and videos are also available to help dental professionals diagnose and treat dental problems. These technologies can now be used to educate and show the patient areas of concern or areas that need treatment.
As mentioned, dental offices today are much more comfortable. Patients can entertain themselves while waiting for their turn, and entertainment is even available for the family members. Compared to old dentistry, going to the dentist is less associated with anxiety or stress. Most dental professionals offer pain-free and stress-free dental treatment. Cypress dental offers sedation options for our patient with high dental anxiety. You can forget about those primitive dental practices that create an unpleasant experience for the patient.
How Dental Treatment Has Changed
In the past, medical professionals were clueless about what causes tooth pain, jaw pain or facial pain. But today, there is more data, diagnostic tools, technologies, and resources to help address all your dental needs. Cosmetic treatments can greatly enhance your teeth or even completely change your smile. Bridges, crowns, dental veneers and dental implants can help patients treat dental problems, such as misshapen, broken, loose, and missing teeth. Also, instead of waiting weeks, it is possible to even have your dental crowns made in one day. Different therapies and removable appliances can help relieve pain caused by TMJ disorders that affect muscles and joints.
Contact a Dentist in Kitsilano
Are you having dental problems? Cypress Dental is here to help! We make sure that all our patients are comfortable while receiving dental care. Our goal is to provide our patients with a dental experience that will promote a lifelong relationship built on trust, confidence, and quality dentistry. We are a fully committed and dedicated team that aims to ensure you get the best treatment you need in order to help you achieve the smile you long for. Contact us today for an appointment.
How to Repair a Chipped or Broken Tooth
The tooth's enamel is extremely durable and is one of the strongest parts of your body. However, it doesn't take a punch to chip your tooth. You can damage your tooth when you have tooth decay and even while eating ice cubes. So how do you repair a chipped or broken tooth? We'll talk about the different cosmetic dentistry procedures to help restore your smile and improve confidence.
Veneers
Veneers are thin, tooth-colored coverings made with porcelain or other composite materials that are placed over your teeth to look just like natural teeth. If you have chipped or broken teeth that can't be fixed by bonding or other treatment, veneers might be a good choice. There are different types of dental veneers and the right material depends on your dental problem. We suggest you get in touch with a dentist for recommendations.
Crowns
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps used to repair a chipped or broken tooth. They are placed over your teeth to restore and improve their appearance, shape or size. Crowns are made with ceramics, porcelain, metals, or resin and only require proper dental hygiene as maintenance.
Get crowns if you want to protect a weak tooth or restore a chipped or broken tooth. On average, they last between five to 15 years. Please ensure that you practice good oral hygiene to extend the lifespan of your crowns. It would also help if you can get rid of habits that include biting fingernails, chewing ice and grinding.
Bonding
Tooth bonding is ideal for minor damage or injury to your tooth. It uses a composite resin, similar to the color of your teeth, to fix the chipped or broken tooth. This dental cosmetic procedure doesn't require anesthesia except when the damage is near your nerve or you also need a filling.
You can opt for this procedure if you're already happy with the color of your teeth. Should you decide to whiten your teeth later, we recommend that you choose another treatment. When you get teeth whitening, your natural enamel will get lighter but the bond doesn't change color. Talk to your dentist to help you make an informed decision.
Dental Implants
If you have a severely damaged or chipped tooth, it may be best to get a dental implant. By far, implants look more like natural teeth compared to other dental cosmetic procedures. However, not everyone is a good candidate for implants. You will need to have a healthy jawbone to be a good candidate. We suggest that you speak with a dentist to help you decide which dental treatment is right for you.
Contact Cypress Dental
Do you have a chipped or damaged tooth? Please contact Cypress Dental the soonest possible time for an appointment. Ignoring a chipped or broken tooth can lead to even further damage. The chip may allow bacteria to get inside the tooth, causing more damage. If you feel pain while biting or chewing, or your teeth are sensitive to hot or cold drinks, you may have a cracked or chipped tooth. Please see us right away so we can recommend the best cosmetic dentistry procedures. Call us today for an appointment.
How To Deal With a Dental Emergency
Like any other kind of medical emergency, a dental emergency can be frightening and traumatic. No matter the cause, acting quickly and following the right steps are key to preventing further complications. Before reaching for the phone, follow these best practices for every kind of dental emergency.
Fractured Teeth
If hard food or facial trauma cracks teeth, the fracture can cause shooting pain, temperature sensitivity and swelling. This is because the pulp at the center of the tooth is exposed.
Relieve symptoms with over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications. Afterwards, bite down gently on a slightly moist clean cloth. Make an appointment with a specialist as soon as possible. Fortunately, many of these injuries can be mended with a bridge or crown.
Knocked-out Teeth
Every year, children lose five million teeth to facial trauma, but people of every age know the pain. Timing is crucial to preserve lost teeth. In the first 30 minutes:
- Pick up the tooth by the crown but never by the root.
- Do not rinse with water. Do not use soap or any chemicals. This will destroy any viable cells on the root surface of the tooth.
- If possible, put the tooth back into its socket with the root facing down.
- If that's not possible, put it in your mouth next to your cheek. Otherwise, leave it in a small container with milk.
- See a dentist or endodontist.
It's possible to save a tooth after 30 minutes, but see a professional as soon as possible.
Jaw Injuries
A dislocated, broken or fractured jaw causes pain, bruises, swelling and numbness. Wrap an ice-pack in a towel and hold it to the area up to 20 minutes per hour. See a professional as soon as possible. Avoid talking or eating anything besides soft foods.
Soft-tissue Damage and Bleeding
Any type of dental emergency can cause cuts and bleeding in cheeks, lips, gums or tongues. Swish with clean water to keep the wound clean and relieve swelling by sucking on a frozen food such as a popsicle. Apply pressure with gauze to stop bleeding.
If bleeding occurs for a long period after dental surgery, return to your dentist as soon as possible.
Abscesses, Infections and Toothaches
Tooth abscesses and infections often occur after a tooth has been fractured or broken. They don't set in quickly but can spread throughout the bloodstream. Sometimes, mouth infections cause fatal brain abcesses.
Common symptoms of infections and abscesses include:
- Redness and swelling along the neck and face
- Toothaches
- Bad breath
- Bad tastes in the mouth
- Fever
Take over-the-counter pain relievers and avoid using the affected part of the mouth. Make a dentist appointment as soon as possible.
Lost or Damaged Dental Appliances
Losing a crown, bridge or other dental appliance can change the way a person bites and cause other teeth to shift. When a filling falls out, it can cause an infection. Always save whatever dental appliance came out and bring it to your next appointment. Have the appliance replaced as soon as possible.
Schedule an Appointment Following a Dental Emergency in Vancouver
A dental emergency is traumatic enough. At Cypress Dental of Vancouver, our office is designed to be as comfortable as possible. To schedule an appointment following a dental emergency, contact us today. Our team is experienced in multiple oral surgery procedures that save smiles.
The 3 Main Steps Involved in Getting Dental Veneers
A specialist in dental veneers can give you a new smile in three main steps. It is possible to keep your natural teeth and have a new outlook on life with the procedures involved in having dental veneers put in place. Dental veneers from Cypress Dental cover the front of each tooth instead of the whole tooth as with crowns. After your initial consultation to discuss your desire for veneers, the main steps involved include:
1. Preparing Your Teeth and Making a Mold
Your dental veneer specialist will begin by reshaping part of your teeth to make a room for the veneer to go. If your existing teeth are concave or is tucked behind another tooth, the preparation of the tooth may be more conservative or could even be a no prep veneer. This procedure will be done with a local anesthetic to keep you as comfortable as possible.
After your teeth are appropriately prepared, a digital mold of your teeth will be taken. This is to ensure that the shape of the veneers looks as real as your natural teeth. Different processes are used for this step, depending on the dentist's equipment and/or the lab she uses. Dr. Chien uses a digital intraoral scanner to help make the process more comfortable and efficient.
2. Selecting the Right Shade for You
Selecting the perfect shade for your dental veneers is one of the most important steps in the whole process. You want your veneers to match the color of your existing teeth when you smile. If you are having veneers on all of your teeth, you might choose to have a slightly different shade of white. Some people's natural teeth have a yellow tint, while others can have a gray tint. Most people don't realize that a totally bright white smile is not as natural looking as one with a slight tint to it. Our dental labs will do custom shading for you at no extra charge.
3. Temporary and Permanent Veneers
Your dental veneers can usually be completed in one visit at Cypress Dental. Sometimes it is necessary to have a temporary set of veneers put on your teeth until the permanent ones are ready. Dr. Chien will make sure your permanent dental veneers fit on your teeth and in your mouth, so you won't even know they are there.
Dr. Chien will explain the process every step of the way, and when you leave the office after your initial consultation, you will know what to expect when you return for your new dental veneers. Call Cypress Dental today for a consultation with Dr. Samantha Chien about getting dental veneers in Vancouver. You can have that smile you've always dreamed of.
Tooth Extractions: Everything You Need to Know
Tooth extractions are routine dental procedures that most adults will experience in their lifetime. From wisdom teeth to crowding, there are several reasons why you may need to have a tooth removed. While the thought of a tooth extraction can be nerve-wracking, the procedure is completely safe and relatively quick. Read on for everything you need to know about tooth extractions and know what to expect at your next appointment.
Why have teeth extracted?
There are several reasons why your dentist may recommend a tooth extraction. One of the most common is to remove wisdom teeth in the hopes of preventing complications they may cause. Tooth decay, infection, or crowding can also cause your dentist to recommend extraction as it may relieve you of these conditions. For those who are preparing to undergo major surgery, such as an organ transplant, you may need to have some of your teeth extracted to ensure your mouth stays healthy.
Preparing for a Tooth Extraction
Before your procedure, you'll want to have a conversation with your dentist about any existing conditions you may have, as well as the medication you may be taking. Your dentist will advise you to avoid eating or drinking for up to eight hours before your appointment and to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing on the day of your procedure.
Tooth Extraction Procedure
There are a couple of methods for extracting a tooth that dentists use, depending on the type of tooth that is to be removed.
Simple Extraction
If the tooth in question is visible, a quick simple extraction is all that is necessary. You will likely receive a local anesthetic, which numbs the area around your tooth to prevent you from feeling any pain during the procedure. The dentist will then use simple tools to loosen and remove the tooth from your mouth.
Surgical Extraction
If you have impacted teeth that need to be removed you'll need to undergo surgical extraction. For this procedure, you will have the option to receive intravenous anesthesia so you can remain unconscious during the operation. The dentist will then make a small incision into your gums to access and retrieve the buried tooth.
Tooth Extraction Recovery
It will take several days for you to recover completely from your tooth extraction. Your dentist will provide you with detailed instructions, but generally, you can expect to:
- Eat soft foods such as applesauce or pudding
- Rest for at least the first 24 hours
- Avoid going up and down stairs unless necessary
- Take prescribed medication and over-the-counter painkillers
While you may be frightened to hear that you need to have a tooth extracted, the routine procedure is completely safe and extremely quick. Contact Cypress Dental today to make an appointment with a lead dentist for your tooth extraction, and rest easy knowing you are safe in capable hands.
Painless Root Canal by Gentle Dentist
You No Longer Need to Worry About Painful Root Canals
The often-irrational fear of having a root canal is common even though in most cases there is nothing to fear. Cypress Dental root canal treatment could be one of the most comfortable dental procedures that you ever have. Root canals have been the cause of normally calm, rational adults turning into puddles of nerves for as long as there have been root canals. Slight pain or discomfort afterward a procedure is common, but it is only temporary, and it is not from the nerve or your tooth root.
Ways a Gentle Dentist Can Help Make Root Canal Treatment Free of Pain
One of the first things that will happen once you get situated in your dentist's chair is that you will be local anesthetic in the area around the tooth that will be receiving the root canal treatment. The shot might sting a bit, but it is to make the area numb so that you do not feel pain when the dentist is working on the root of your bad tooth. You will probably feel pressure in the area, but you should not feel pain. If you do, let your dentist know.
You Will Be Able to Keep Your Natural Teeth
Having a root canal can help you be able to keep your natural teeth. Letting tooth decay continue to the point of constant pain can result in an abscess and the need to have the infected tooth extracted. A tooth receiving root canal treatment might hurt for a while, and that is probably why you sought out a dentist. Once you have the root canal done, your tooth will no longer hurt from the root being damaged and exposed, and you will still have your natural tooth in place.
Crowns Protect Your Tooth
Once the root and nerve are removed, your dentist will fill the hole in your tooth with a biocompatible material. You will need to return for a visit to finish up the root canal treatment and possibly have a crown put on the tooth. Having a crown in place will protect your tooth from fractures and have you back eating normally as you did before your tooth pain.
Speed Helps to Have Less Pain
Modern dental methods of root canal therapy make it possible for your dentist to take care of your hurting tooth in less time than in the past. The time spent being stressed out about the procedure can add to pain that could be imagined. The speed and ability of your dentist to do the job could mean that your time spent in their chair will be with little or no fear.
Our Goal is a Patient With No Fear
The goal of our gentle dentist is to make this as pleasant a procedure as it can be. Most people would rather never go to the dentist, but we hope to make this a positive experience so you will no longer fear going to the dentist. Start the new year with a visit for teeth cleaning and you'll be on your way to a healthy mouth.
What is the Importance of Dental Exams and Cleanings?
Are dental exams and cleanings really important? Actually, they're more than "important." They're a necessary part of oral hygiene.
For one thing, dentists are the only ones who are qualified to evaluate your dental health. You, for instance, do not have the training to diagnose or treat dental problems. This must be done by scheduling regular dental exams.
Besides that, only dentists have the specialized tools to remove tartar buildup or fill your cavities. For the most optimum dental health, it is recommended to have a dental check every 6 months so that the dentist can detect any cavities before you have discomfort or pain.
In short, dental check-ups are not optional. Read on to learn more about the importance of scheduling dental exams.
Early Detection/Treatment of Dental Problems
Have you ever had a toothache that hurts so bad you can't even eat? Hopefully, you never will. But the only way to prevent this from happening is to go in for your dental check every 6 months.
You see, unless you sustain a mouth injury, extreme tooth pain is exclusively a sign of advanced dental problems. Problems that cause this type of pain take a long time to develop, longer than 6 months, anyway.
Thus, if you see your dentist every 6 months, he/she can detect such problems early on. Then, the problems are treated before they cause you unbearable pain.
Prevention of Dental Problems
If you brush and floss very well, and aren't experiencing any symptoms, you may think that you don't need to visit the dentist. However, as just mentioned, you shouldn't wait until symptoms arise to see your dentist.
Besides that, dentists don't just fix dental problems. They also used specialized cleaning methods to prevent dental problems.
The truth is that a perfect brushing and flossing routine is still insufficient for cleaning your teeth. In spite of these efforts, some plaque remains. Over time, this plaque hardens into tartar, which causes a number of dental conditions when left unchecked. Only a dentist or hygienist can properly remove this tartar and prevent these problems.
Cavities Aren't the Only Concern
Cavities are hardly the only dental problem there is to worry about. You can also get oral infections that cause painful and dangerous symptoms.
Plus, there's gum disease to watch out for. This can make your gums bleed and swell and cause continuous bad breath.
You could have a bite misalignment issue that causes jaw pain. Or you might have a loose filling that needs fixing or a cracked tooth that needs to be capped.
The point is, there are many, many oral health concerns that you simply aren't aware of. But all of these issues and more will be addressed at your regular dental check.
Schedule Dental Exams and Cleanings Every 6 Months
Answer honestly. Do you see your dentist every 6 months for dental exams and cleanings? If not, you need to get back into the habit.
Contact Cypress Dental to schedule your dental check in Vancouver. Or, simply reach out to us with any questions you have.
Top Tips and Tricks to Prepare Your Child for their Dental Visit.
Every parent wants the best for their child, including great oral health. Taking children to the dentist at an early age is crucial to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. But for the little ones, their first trip the dentist can be a little scary, filled with unfamiliar sounds, objects, and people. To help ease their anxieties, here are some ways you can help your kids prepare for their appointment.
Start Young
The sooner your child visits the dentist, the better. Believe it or not, parents should be taking their kids to the dentist as early as age 1 or when their first tooth comes in. Regular dental visits, while your kids are young, will not only benefit their oral health but also help children familiarize themselves with the dental process, helping them to reduce fear and boost confidence. Regular check ups also allows issues to be identified early, which may make treatment easier and more comfortable.
Take A Tour Of The Office.
Okay, taking a trip to the dentist is not like spending the day at Disneyland, but it sure can come in handy when preparing kids for their dental visit. A short visit to the clinic before their actual appointment provides a great opportunity for your children to meet the dentist and staff, as well as get a feel for the new surroundings.
Get Your Kids Interested
Getting kids interested about their dental appointment is a great way to help lower anxiety. You can help them learn and get excited about their appointment with a wide variety of toys, pictures, books, videos, and apps. Playing pretend dentist with your child will also help them prepare for a real dental visit—all you need is a chair, a toothbrush, a mirror, a bib, and a little imagination. The key is helping your child get a better sense of what to expect.
Stay Positive
It helps to keep a happy and cheerful attitude when talking about the dentist. Everything you say can and does have an impact on your child. Be sure to treat the visit as something positive, simple, and routine. Kids look to you for support and guidance, so you’ll want to communicate safe and comforting words like “Strong”, “Clean” and “Healthy” and stay away from words like “Painful”, “Hurts”, “Shots” when discussing about their upcoming visit. This will help them have a better attitude towards the dentist and their visit. Feel free to bring along their favourite toy or blanket to comfort and support them. If you would like to book your child’s first dental appointment today, feel free to contact Cypress Dental at 604-336-9360.
I have a tooth that is missing. What are my options for replacing my tooth?
Implant
IMPLANTS are considered the gold standard for replacing teeth. An implant is a titanium screw that is placed into the jaw. While it sounds scary, most patients are surprised how easy the appointment and healing is for them. An implant acts as an individual tooth and will stimulate the bone to keep bone loss from happening. After a few months, the implant screw will have integrated into the bone and a prosthetic tooth can be made to fit onto the screw. As its own single tooth, it will feel and look more natural and is easier to floss and maintain compared to some of the other options for replacing teeth.
Implant Supported Bridge
AN IMPLANT SUPPORTED BRIDGE is another implant treatment that can be used when there is more then one missing tooth. A bridge is like a crown but instead of a single prosthetic tooth, it has multiple prosthetic teeth fused together (this means you cannot floss between the teeth in the bridge). Each end of the bridge will be supported by an implant, and because implants are very strong you can replace more missing teeth than with a tooth-supported bridge (as mentioned below).
Tooth Supported Bridge
TOOTH SUPPORTED BRIDGE is made by preparing the neighboring teeth on either side of the missing space to be fitted for dental crowns. When the lab creates the bridge they place a few prosthetic teeth in the missing space so that it appears there is no missing tooth. While bridges are esthetically pleasing and good for restoring function, the downfall is that they can be difficult to clean. The bridge is one piece spanning three or more teeth so you cannot floss between them and will need to use a Waterpik or floss threader to guide your floss underneath the bridge so you can keep it clean. Good maintenance and oral hygiene is key to longevity of the bridge. Any decay on the supporting teeth will compromise the bridge and will require the whole bridge to be replaced.
Implant Supported Bridge
FLIPPER: You can have a one tooth denture made more commonly known as a flipper to replace a single tooth. This is usually a short-term fix and used mostly for temporary esthetic reasons such as replacing front teeth while deciding on the best course of treatment. They are quick to make and not that expensive which makes them good temporary solutions. However, flippers are small and are easy to lose, and they are not always the most comfortable options because they will rest on the gums and surrounding teeth.
A Removable Partial Denture
A REMOVABLE PARTIAL DENTURE is a custom made resin or metal base that has prosthetic teeth to replace multiple missing teeth. The removable partial denture is designed around your remaining teeth and soft tissue which is why a thorough dental examination is important to determine whether any dental work is required before getting fitted for your denture. The denture gives the appearance of a full smile and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting into any gaps left by the missing teeth. This is a less invasive procedure that does not require surgery and typically has a lower cost than bridges/implants. If additional teeth are required in the future the denture can easily be modified. They require an adjustment period as they can be uncomfortable at first, but most patients have no issues adapting. Dentures will need to be adjusted or remade over time due to the remodeling of bone levels causing the denture to become loose.
Do Nothing
Your last option is to DO NOTHING. If you are comfortable with doing nothing that is a choice as well. However, there are some things you should know about leaving the area alone. When you have missing teeth over time you will experience bone loss in that area. This can cause the face to look sunken or lose definition depending on where the missing tooth is. As well the neighboring teeth may tip towards the empty space. You could also experience some alterations in your speech and chewing function. Many people find they have a loss of confidence if they have teeth missing because your smile is the first thing people see when you meet them.
If you are interested in discussing any of these options for restoring your missing tooth, you can give us a call. Dr. Samantha Chien will be happy to go over all your options with you and help you make an informed choice about what treatment is best for you. Call Cypress Dental today at 604-366-9360, or click here to request an appointment online.
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