The following are treatment options for 

Replacing a Single Tooth

Dental Implant Fixed Partial Denture (Bridge) Removable Partial Denture Bonded (Maryland) Bridge

What are the consequences of tooth loss? (click for additional information)

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Single Dental Implant

This is an example of how a dental implant is used to replace a single missing tooth.

Replacing a single missing tooth with an implant has the advantage of removing the need to grind down adjacent teeth as you would to place a bridge. Occasionally, this grinding process can lead to the need for further treatment such as root canal therapy on these prepared teeth. Bridges that are not kept clean can result in decay under the bridge and result in further tooth loss. Remember dental implants can't get decay.

 

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Click above to see a 3-D video on how a Single Dental Implant is used to restore one tooth
Click below  to download and print the following dental implant brochures
 Dental Implant Brochure (overview)
 Dental Implant Brochure (comprehensive)
 Single Tooth Replacement Brochure
 Front Tooth Replacement Brochure
Back Tooth Replacement Brochure
 Full Upper Denture Replacement Brochure
 Full Lower Denture Replacement Brochure

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Fixed Partial Denture (Bridge)

 
 
 
First the abutments are cut down so that the bridge can fit on top of the teeth
Note how the bridge fits over the shaved teeth.
After the fit is checked the bridge is cemented. The bridge can not be flossed thus to keep it clean other interproximal aids must be used including a floss threader or a proxabrush.
 

 

 Disadvantages

  • Extra forces are placed on the supporting teeth

  • Must grind/or shave the supporting teeth

  • Possible need for a root canal

  • Risk for decay under the bridge

  • Not able to floss the bridge (must use other aids)

  • Lack of stimulation of bone leading to jaw bone defects (see pictures)

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Removable Partial Denture

Disadvantages

  • Extra forces are placed on the supporting teeth which can lead to tooth mobility

  • Risk for decay or bone loss around the teeth that support the partial denture

  • Food collects underneath the partial denture

  • Uncomfortable

  • May see metal clasps/arm

  • Lack of stimulation of bone leading to jaw bone defects (click here to see pictures)

 

 

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Bonded (Maryland) Bridge

  • Metal wings are bonded/cemented to the adjacent teeth 

  • Offers a great temporary solution

  • Has a poor long-term success (metal wings can loosen and de-bond off the teeth)  

  • Does not work well in the posterior (back) teeth

 

 

 

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