Anyone with a gap in their teeth will usually need some form of dental prosthetics. The current state of dental technology offers various options for closing gaps left by missing teeth. In general, these include bridges, crowns and implants. However, not every type of restoration is suitable for every patient. The following overview presents the characteristics and requirements of these three options for replacing teeth.
Replacing teeth with a bridge
One way of closing a gap is a so-called bridge. The principle is that the neighbouring teeth serve as anchors for the artificially made restoration. This requires the adjacent teeth to be healthy and capable of supporting the bridge. To achieve this, the otherwise healthy teeth must be ground down so that the bridge framework can be fitted securely and provide sufficient hold. This is one of the disadvantages of dental bridges, as healthy tooth structure has to be prepared. Yet if the requirements for a more conservative implant or a crown are not met, a bridge remains the only alternative. It is also possible to bond the bridge in place with adhesive, although its durability is then limited.
A crown as a tooth restoration
If a gap arises because a tooth is so badly damaged that only the visible part of the tooth needs to be replaced, a crown may be an option. The prerequisite is that the tooth root is still intact. If the damage has progressed to the point where a filling or partial crown is no longer sufficient, a full crown is the next step. The damaged tooth is prepared so that the crown covers the part of the tooth that is still intact. Made of metal, resin or ceramic, the crown restores normal function once fitted and is visually barely distinguishable from the natural teeth. In contrast to a bridge, the surrounding healthy teeth are spared any further treatment. The material used also influences the cost.
Implants as tooth replacement
If the tooth root is no longer intact and a bridge is not possible, a dental implant offers a further option for replacing the tooth. In this lengthier procedure, an artificial tooth root made of titanium is placed in the jaw. Once this artificial root has firmly integrated into the jawbone, a crown is fitted on top of it. The bone at this site continues to be loaded as usual, so bone loss is generally not to be expected there. Treatment with implants usually takes time. If the jawbone does not offer enough substance for the implant, it can be built up over several months. After the titanium root has been placed, it must first heal firmly into the bone before the crown can be fitted. Of all restorations, however, this option comes closest to natural teeth in both appearance and function.
Read also: 3D-Printed Dental Prosthetics – Where Do We Stand? and CEREC: Digital Ceramic Restorations in Suitable Cases.
Do you have questions about dental prosthetics? At our practice you will receive professional advice on replacing missing teeth. Make an appointment and we will be happy to advise you. We will transparently explain the types of restoration, possible subsidies and your expected personal contribution.
