3 Ways To Restore A Damaged Or Missing Tooth
A cracked, damaged, or missing tooth can happen for many reasons, including an injury, decay, or wear over time. And while these issues can certainly impact the appearance of your smile, the problems often go much deeper, as missing or damaged teeth can make it difficult to chew, affect your speech, and even cause the surrounding teeth to shift out of place. Fortunately, we offer several effective options to restore the function and beauty of your smile. Keep reading to learn which option might be the best fit for your needs.
Dental Crowns
When a tooth is damaged but intact, a crown might be the perfect solution. A crown is a custom-made “cap” that fits over your natural tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. We use crowns to repair fractures, cover large fillings, or enhance the appearance of discolored or misshapen teeth. Because crowns are custom made to blend in with the surrounding teeth, they look completely natural. No one will know you have a crown but you!
Once your crown is in place, it will function just like a natural tooth, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. With regular brushing, flossing, and dental exams, you can expect your crown to last for many years.
Dental Bridges
If a tooth can’t be saved, or you’ve lost one or two teeth, a bridge can restore your smile and prevent future dental issues. A missing tooth leaves a gap, which can cause neighboring teeth to shift. When this happens, you can experience bite problems or uneven wear. A bridge fills that space with an artificial tooth supported by crowns. We place these crowns on your natural teeth on either side of the gap to secure the bridge in place.
The bridge restores your smile and allows you to eat and speak naturally. It also maintains the alignment of your teeth to preserve your facial structure and prevent jaw discomfort.
Dental Implants
Although crowns and bridges are long-lasting options, dental implants are the most permanent solution for a broken or missing tooth. Unlike a crown, which goes over the tooth, a dental implant replaces the tooth and its root entirely. If the tooth you need replaced is still in your mouth, we’ll perform an extraction and then surgically place a titanium post into the jawbone. Over time, the post will fuse to the jawbone to create a secure foundation. Once it’s healed, the post will support a crown that looks and feels just like a natural tooth.
Implants are a popular choice because they provide a solution that lasts for many years—often a lifetime. They don’t require special care beyond your usual brushing and flossing routine, and they won’t slip or shift like removable dentures.
Fixing Broken Teeth Goes Beyond Aesthetics
Restoring a damaged or missing tooth isn’t just about appearances—it’s about protecting your oral health. Whether you need a crown, bridge, or dental implant, each option is designed to restore function, prevent further damage, and give you a smile you’ll feel good about.
If you have a damaged or missing tooth, now is the time to explore your options. Contact our office located in Burton, MI to schedule your appointment today. Our team is here to help you restore your smile and protect your oral health!
