A tooth extraction must be performed whenever a tooth becomes severely damaged or decayed. After a tooth is removed, a dentist must replace it immediately for the area to retain its function. According to the dentists at JP Larson DDS and Stephen J. Larson DDS in Cincinnati, OH, the three most common replacement options for a lost tooth are dental implants, bridges, and removable partial dentures.

Here is a breakdown of each of these tooth extraction solutions:

• Dental Implants: A dental implant is the closest alternative to a natural tooth. First, titanium rods are inserted into the jawbone so they can fuse to it and prevent bone loss. After the implant heals, an abutment is placed on top, and a dental crown is applied. This last piece mimics the visible area of a natural tooth.
• Dental Bridges: If your extracted tooth is surrounded by two healthy teeth, a dental bridge could be a viable solution. Similar to an actual bridge, a dental bridge consists of three connected pieces. Two abutment crowns are placed on either side of a pontic, or a missing tooth replacement. Usually, the surrounding teeth must be filed down to make room for the pontic.
• Removable Partial Dentures: If your jaw structure is unable to support dental implants, or if you’d prefer a less invasive approach to replacing your lost teeth, a removable partial denture is your best bet. These pieces are designed to resemble the gums and teeth and are attached to remaining teeth using clips. However, unlike a bridge, you can remove a partial denture to brush and floss the underlying area. 

If you’re preparing for an upcoming tooth extraction, ask your dentist to recommend the ideal replacement option for your situation. To learn more about these tooth replacement methods, contact JP Larson DDS and Stephen J. Larson DDS today at (513) 454-6929. You can also learn more about their services by visiting the website.