Quiz: Options For Replacing Lost Teeth

There are several ways you can go about replacing a lost tooth. Dental implants are popular with dentists and patients alike for providing a permanent replacement tooth, as well as support for your jaw. One problem (among several) with tooth loss is that when you no longer have a tooth root, the bone can deteriorate. This concern is put to rest when you have an implant. A dental bridge, like a dental implant, is permanent, and can be used to bite and chew food. When your ability to do these things is compromised, it can lead to your suffering painful jaw discomfort.

Questions:

True Or False: Dental implants should be taken out every night before you go to sleep.

True Or False: If you want your dental bridge to be permanently placed, you will have to undergo oral surgery.

True Or False: You can have dentures that enjoy support from dental implants.

Answers:

False! Oral surgery is needed to place a dental implant. The post will be set in your jawbone, and as it heals, your bone will actually fuse with it (this occurs because the implant is constructed with biocompatible titanium). The point of an implant is to be a permanent replacement, so it is not removable.

False! Dental bridges actually stay in place because of two dental crowns. The teeth on each side of your gap will receive crowns, and the replacement tooth is held in between them.

True! Instead of having epoxies or suction hold your dentures, you can have them set on a sequence of dental implants.