Replace Missing Teeth a BioIdentical Approach:

Are you missing teeth and wanting to have a functional and healthy mouth?  Or, have you been told that teeth need to be removed from your mouth and are wondering what to do?  Or perhaps you have had teeth removed for health reasons and are looking for dental materials that are compatible with your body?  In this blog I am going to discuss the various options that are available when it comes to replacing missing teeth.

As a member or the IAOMT, I am a dentist that is focused in utilizing a biological and more holistic approach when it comes to cosmetic dentistry.  My Inland Empire BioIdentical Cosmetic dental office offers ways to evaluate what dental materials are best suited for your body.  This is important for many individuals, especially those with compromised immune systems.  This information allows me to determine whether a fixed bridge or implant would be best for your body.

Fixed bridge vs. Implant:

Here is a great animated video that visually shows the difference between a fixed bridge and dental implant:

A fixed bridge for many decades was the only option for providing function where a tooth was missing.  A fixed bridge is a procedure where each tooth adjacent to the missing tooth is “shaved down” in order to prepare it for a crown.  The final bridge includes 3 teeth; a crown for each prepared tooth that serve as “anchors” for the fake tooth placed in the middle.  It is permanently cemented on the teeth and typically lasts around 10 -15 years.  However overtime, the bone surrounding the area is weakened due to the previous loss of tooth and extra stress on each adjacent tooth.  This can lead to further bone destruction or eventual tooth loss over a long period of time.  A fixed bridge is still a great option for individuals, however it greatly depends on the area of the bridge, expected tooth longevity etc.

An implant is a newer technology that provides ideal chewing function without damaging the adjacent teeth surrounding the missing tooth.  The placement of a dental implant in a missing tooth area “mimics” the missing tooth, thus bone loss is not typically an issue.  A dental implant does however need sufficient bone in the area where it is to be placed.  The dental implant is placed into the “jaw bone” area with ease and left to integrate with the jaw bone for approximately 3-6 months.  Once the X-ray shows that the bone has surrounded the implant, then the final implant crown is made.  Implants typically will last a life time, and are a better option for those who are wanting a more long lasting option for replacing their missing teeth.  Another benefit of an implant is that it is easy to clean and floss around, just like your normal teeth.

If you are interested in discovering if a fixed bridge or dental implant is right for you, please call our Inland Empire BioIdentical and Cosmetic Dental office at (951)686-3666.  We are conveniently located off of the 91 freeway in Riverside, California.