A person who is missing at least one tooth will understandably be eager to have the tooth or teeth replaced as soon as possible. But this isn’t quite something you can rush into. There are quite a few considerations to be made before the procedure can take place. Here’s what you should consider before having a missing tooth replaced:
What Kind of Replacement Will You Get?
This is likely the most important question you must ask yourself or work through with a dental professional. There are several types of tooth replacement options and the one that’s best for you will depend on your situation.
Dental bridges are a cost-effective way to replace a missing tooth or a few teeth in a specific area. This treatment “bridges” the gap with a replacement tooth that is held in place by crowns fitted on the adjacent teeth.
Dentures are the most common tooth replacement solution for patients with severe tooth loss and come in multiple options. A partial denture can restore multiple missing teeth and a full denture is an option for replacing a full arch of missing teeth.
Dental implants are arguably the best option for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants look, feel, and function like real teeth, allowing patients to smile, talk, and dine like they did before their tooth loss. Dental implants can be used to replace one tooth, multiple teeth, and even a full arch with the revolutionary All-on-4 treatment concept.
If you’re unsure of what’s best for you, ask a dentist or dental specialist.
Treatment Eligibility and Cost
Once you know what type of treatment is best for you, you must next determine whether you’re eligible for that treatment. Find out if there are any prerequisites that you must meet. If you are eligible, the next step is determining whether this a procedure covered by your insurance. If not, will you be able to afford it? This is a good time to check if your provider has any alternative payment options.
The Procedure and Recovery Time
It’s always wise to know what you’re in for before arriving for a procedure. You should inquire about how long the procedure takes, whether you will receive anesthesia, if you’re going to need someone there to take you home, and anything else that will be important for you to know. It’s also important to consider what your recovery will look like. Will you need to take time off from work or school? Will you need to have any kind of special diet while your mouth heals? Will you have to brush or floss differently going forward? These are all things that you should know before going into the procedure.
If you’re interested in having a missing tooth replaced, The Center for Implant Dentistry in Bakersfield, CA, might be able to help you. We offer a variety of tooth replacement options and can find the best one for your unique situation. Call 661-663-9600 to schedule a FREE consultation today!