When it comes to your teeth, you may have a lot of questions about what replacement option is right for you or a loved one. Our Wyoming dentists want you to know what’s available so you can make the best decision. Dental implants and dental crowns are different, just like dental bridges and dentures are different. And Lumineers® offer features of their own! To learn more about each option, keep reading.
Lumineers
The restorative power of Lumineers is one of our favorites because it’s pain-free! It works by taking an impression of your teeth, then the impression is sent to a Lumineers lab. Once it’s ready, we’ll let you know and we’ll set up an appointment to bond them to your existing teeth.
This process doesn’t require any enamel removal or whitening procedures! Once your Lumineers are on, you’ll be ready to go!
Dental Implants
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. If you’re missing one or multiple teeth, we may recommend a dental implant for you.
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that’s typically made of titanium-alloy. Once we place the implant in your jaw, it will fuse to the bone over the course of several months during a process called osseointegration. Once the implant is secure, we’ll place an abutment and dental crown over the implant. Together, the implant, abutment, and crown work together to give you the function and appearance of a natural tooth.
Dental Bridges
When missing one tooth that has healthy teeth or implants on both sides, we may suggest something like a dental bridge.
A dental bridge doesn’t require an implant to be set if you have what’s commonly called a “gap” in your smile (where you have good teeth on both sides of your missing tooth). Dental bridges work to fill that gap by connecting a bridge piece that uses your good teeth as anchors. The procedure will require us to shave down your side teeth a little so that we can fit the bridge over them and still give your smile a natural look.
If you’re trying to avoid a dental implant, a dental bridge might be the right option for you.
Porcelain & Ceramic Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a piece that fits over your tooth. Porcelain and ceramic dental crowns work to restore your smile from complete tooth loss or to protect a tooth from further decay.
If you have a tooth that’s been weakened from some form of trauma or decay, a dental crown might be right for you. Crowns tend to be the popular option when one tooth is the concern, separate from the rest of the teeth in your mouth. Crowns are not a tooth replacement, though. They act as a cap that goes over your natural tooth or dental implant.
As your Wyoming dental office, we’ll make sure your crown fits perfectly so that you can continue chewing, smiling, and living without pain or discomfort.
Dentures
Whether you’ve seen them on TV or have a loved one with them, you’re probably familiar with dentures. Dentures work as replacement teeth. They’re often used when a patient loses multiple teeth due to cavities, gum disease, or injuries to the face.
Did you know that not all denture options mean you have to get an entirely new smile though? We offer both full and partial dentures that can be used to replace the top or bottom arch if needed. Dentures work just like teeth and you still need to brush and floss them regularly.
Want to Learn More About Your Options?
If you’re thinking about dental implants, dentures, dental bridges, Lumineers, or a crown, feel free to request an appointment online or by phone at (616) 534-5602. We’re here to chat with you about each option and explain their processes. Our Wyoming, MI dentists are accepting new patients and hope to see you soon!