Cope with Tooth Loss Through Prosthetic DentistryLosing a tooth as an adult is nothing like the experience you likely had losing your baby teeth as a child. Children are often elated to lose their teeth, because it feels like a rite of passage, not to mention an excuse for the Tooth Fairy to show up. But as an adult, losing teeth can be embarrassing, frustrating, and in many cases, have negative effects on a person’s oral health. Fortunately, modern dentistry provides a number of prosthetic options for completing smiles, so that you can get back to life as it was before the tooth loss, and what could be better than that?

What Ways Can a Dentist Help Complete Your Smile?

Dentures, both partial and full, remain a popular way to cope with tooth loss, because they are affordable and easily completed. They are also made to be comfortable and natural-looking. However some patients may not be happy with unsupported dentures, since they can shift during chewing.

For patients wanting more stability, dental bridges make a great option. A dental bridge is anchored by two porcelain crowns, which can be affixed to the two teeth closest to the gap created by the lost tooth. This helps hold the replacement tooth in place, particularly while chewing.

But for the most support possible, a dental implant may be recommended. Dental implants anchor replacement teeth through the use of titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawline. This post then stabilized the prosthetic, and also helps supply nutrients to the jaw the way a natural tooth root would.