When faced with something like a root canal treatment, you may bristle at the thought. Unfortunately, no dental treatment or procedure resolves the specific issues which a root canal treats. If you forgo a root canal procedure out of fear, you will need to undergo a tooth extraction eventually. This is not to say this is a hopeless situation, as…
When faced with something like a root canal treatment, you may bristle at the thought. Unfortunately, no dental treatment or procedure resolves the specific issues which a root canal treats. If you forgo a root canal procedure out of fear, you will need to undergo a tooth extraction eventually. This is not to say this is a hopeless situation, as there are ways to restore your smile if you do lose teeth for any reason. Knoxville dentist, Dr. Jim Erpenbach, strongly recommends replacing missing teeth as quickly as possible. Replacing missing teeth can prevent bone loss in your jaw so you won’t have to deal with facial collapse (sunken cheeks) and/or teeth shifting. There are several options for replacing teeth, and which one is best for you is a decision to be discussed with your dentist.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are unique from other teeth replacement systems because they replace the tooth root with a prosthetic root. Your dentist will prepare the gums for surgery, and then he will place an implant deep into the jawbone. For the next three to six months,Â?the bone will heal and fuse to the implant root, forming a sturdy bond between the implant and bone. This connection provides unparalleled support to the crown that Dr. Erpenbach will place atop the implant. Dental implants do not require alterations to nearby teeth as some tooth replacement systems do, and an implant can function like a normal tooth.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is another tooth replacement option that, like dental implants, remains fixed and cannot be removed. A dental bridge is made of two crowns placed on two healthy teeth adjacent to the space left by the missing tooth. These crowns are attached to the prosthetic teeth in the middle, and together this bridge of teeth fills the space left by the missing teeth. A dental bridge is completed over two appointments, and the bridge is constructed by a ceramist at a dental lab.
Visit your Knoxville Dentist
To schedule an appointment, contact ourÂ?Knoxville dentist officeÂ?at 865-584-8630. We are proud to provideÂ?comprehensive dentistryÂ?to patients in West Knoxville, the Bearden area, the 37919 zip code, and surrounding neighborhoods.
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