Losing a tooth can be a distressing experience, but it doesn't mean you have to live with a gap in your smile. At Warner Parks Family Dental, we offer several effective solutions to restore your smile. Let's explore five options for replacing a missing tooth.

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1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most popular and effective solutions for replacing a missing tooth. They are essentially artificial tooth roots that provide a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. Dr. Robert Wilson is highly experienced in performing dental implant procedures, ensuring your new tooth looks, feels, and functions just like a natural one. Dental implants also help preserve bone health, preventing the bone loss that often occurs after tooth loss.

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2. Dentures

For those missing multiple teeth or an entire arch, dentures could be an ideal solution. Modern dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than ever before. They can help restore your smile, improve your ability to eat and speak, and boost your self-confidence. At Warner Parks Family Dental, we offer both full and partial dentures, custom-made to fit your mouth perfectly and match your natural teeth.

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3. Resin-Bonded Bridge (Maryland Bridge)

A resin-bonded bridge, commonly known as a Maryland bridge, is an excellent alternative for replacing a missing tooth, particularly in areas with less stress, like the front teeth. This type of bridge involves a false tooth (pontic) that is anchored to the adjacent teeth using metal or porcelain wings. Unlike traditional bridges, a Maryland bridge doesn't require extensive preparation or alteration of the neighboring teeth, making it a more conservative option. It's a great choice for patients who desire a less invasive and more cost-effective solution than implants. The Maryland bridge is durable, aesthetically pleasing, and can be an ideal option for those who want a fixed solution but aren't candidates for dental implants or conventional bridges.

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4. Implant-Supported Bridge

An implant-supported bridge is an excellent option for replacing multiple missing teeth. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on natural teeth for support, this type uses dental implants as anchors. Each end of the bridge is supported by an implant, which is then used to hold the bridge in place. This option is particularly beneficial for those who have lost several teeth in a row. The implants provide a strong and stable foundation, making the bridge feel more like natural teeth. Additionally, implant-supported bridges help preserve the jawbone and maintain facial structure.

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5. Cantilever Dental Bridge

A cantilever dental bridge is a type of bridge used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This bridge involves anchoring the prosthetic tooth to one or more existing teeth on one side. It's a viable option when it's not possible or desirable to prepare teeth on both sides of the missing tooth for crowns. Cantilever bridges are often used in areas of your mouth that are under less stress, such as your front teeth. They are a conservative option since fewer teeth need to be altered.

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When To Contact An Emergency Dentist

If you lose a tooth unexpectedly, it's crucial to contact an emergency dentist near you immediately. In some cases, the tooth can be reinserted if acted upon quickly. Besides tooth loss, other situations warranting immediate dental attention include severe toothache, a broken or chipped tooth, a lost filling or crown, or injury to your gums or jaw. These dental emergencies can be painful and potentially serious, so prompt action is essential. 

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Don't Let A Missing Tooth Hold Back Your Smile

Missing a tooth can take a toll on your confidence and oral health. But with modern dentistry, it doesn't have to be permanent. Whether you're considering dental implants, dentures, bridges, or need an emergency dentist, our Bellevue dentist can help. Dr. Robert Wilson is dedicated to providing personalized dental care that meets your unique needs and goals. Don't let a missing tooth hold you back - contact us today at (615) 662-2787 to schedule an appointment and explore your options.