Implants Vs. Other Traditional Restorative Procedures
If you are missing a tooth, or need to have a permanent tooth removed, you will eventually need to have that gap replaced to avoid bone loss. If you wait too long and lose bone in your jaw, your face will appear sunken. You will then need a bone graft to rebuild the jaw before getting implants. There are many ways to do this and the option that’s right for you will be discussed with your dentist and oral surgeon in Melbourne, FL. Implants are the most common restorative procedure for today’s patients, and for good reason. Here’s more about them, as well as the other traditional restorative procedures.
Dental Implants in Melbourne
Dental implants are a versatile way to restore the health of your teeth and jaw. Whether you are missing one tooth, or several teeth, an implant can be inserted into your jaw bone, then covered with an artificial tooth. This tooth will be made to match your existing teeth, so nobody will know it isn’t natural. You’ll have a strong, healthy smile again and it will last for approximately 25 years with proper care. The surgery often takes place in two parts. The first will be to place the implant in your jaw. Once that heals, the new tooth can be placed. The entire process typically takes six months to complete and a full year to heal. It may sound like a lot but we promise your new smile will be worth the wait!
Full Mouth Reconstruction
A full mouth reconstruction is a major surgery because it involves replacing every single tooth in your mouth. Thankfully, your dental surgeon in Melbourne doesn’t have to do this one tooth at a time. Instead, we can place four or six implants in your top and/or bottom arch, then have an entire row of teeth attached to those implants. This procedure is often used in cases of severe trauma, cancer, or decay in the mouth. It is typically reserved for only the worst of situations since it is such an intense procedure with a long recovery time.
Crowns
When the root of your tooth is still in good condition, but the visible portion is not, your dentist may recommend a crown. This will involve sanding down the existing tooth so just the root is left. A cap, (called a crown) will then be placed on top of the root. The crown is made to match your other, natural teeth. This can be a great way to fix a tooth with minimal invasion. However, it can make the tooth more vulnerable to other dental issues.
Dentures
Dentures, whether full or partial, are the most well-known form of restorative dentistry. They can be made to replace an entire row of teeth, or fixed together to fill in gaps. They are not as commonly used anymore because the adhesive is messy to apply every day, they can slip around in your mouth, and they can make talking or eating more difficult. At one time, they were the best option available but as technology advances, so do our preferred options for dental surgery.
Bridge
For those who are missing a few teeth in a row, a bridge may be suggested. Most dentists will want to avoid replacing the entire row of teeth, if possible, and let you keep as many of your natural teeth as they can. An implant is placed on each side of the gap, then a bridge of teeth is attached to those implants. This can be a great way to fill in a large gap. However, if you need more teeth replaced later, you may have to remove it and have a full mouth reconstruction surgery instead.
Contact Our Experts in Melbourne
If you’re looking for an oral surgeon in Melbourne, Florida that you can trust, look no further than Dr. Sedaros. Born and raised in Satellite, Florida, he has been practicing dentistry since 2004. He takes a special interest in teeth implants that Melbourne residents need. Call his office staff today at 321-610-7868 or contact us online to schedule your dental implants consultation. We look forward to making you smile again!