On average dental bridges can last from 5-7 years, while dental implants can remain intact for 10-11 years. With excellent dental care, these dental devices can last many years beyond their average lifespans.
But if your dental bridge or implant has become broken or worn-down due to age, our dentist, Dr. Taylor, can help you.
Ways Dr. Taylor Can Restore An Old Or Damaged Bridge
It is important to address a damaged dental bridge as soon as possible, as bacteria can hide in the flawed areas and cause an infection. An untreated infection can cause the entire dental bridge to fail, requiring its removal and periodontal therapy to treat the infected area.
To avoid dental bridge failure, it is important to come in to see Dr.Taylor as soon as you notice your bridge is becoming old or compromised. Some of the most common ways he can repair your dental device are:
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Repair a damaged dental bridge tooth – There may be a time when a tooth on your dental bridge becomes chipped. Instead of replacing the entire structure, our dentist can place a crown or a veneer over the damaged tooth. If the flaw is small, Dr. Taylor may even be able to use dental composite for bonding and easily correct the dental bridge damage.
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Correct any issues with abutment teeth – Most often, the problem with a dental bridge rests with the abutment teeth that support the bridge. If these teeth become infected or damaged, our dentist will need to perform a root canal to save the teeth. If the abutment teeth are too compromised, Dr. Taylor can place two dental implants for your dental bridge to be supported by.
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Offer a replacement bridge – At times, the dental bridge is too old or too damaged to be effectively repaired. In such cases, Dr. Taylor can place a new dental bridge.
For those with damaged dental bridges which have affected other teeth, you may want to consider partial or full dentures. These dental devices last longer than dental bridges and can be a more cost-effective solution in the long term.
Options For Dental Implant Repair
A dental implant is one of the best options to replace one or more missing teeth, as it allows the most natural and sturdy replacement of a missing or damaged tooth. However, dental implants can become damaged. Dr. Taylor offers options for dental implant repairs:
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Replace crown of implant – Like a natural tooth, the crown of a dental implant can become chipped, cracked or discolored. Our dentist can replace the crown and make your dental implant as good as new.
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Treat gum infection – When you have a gum infection, your dental implant can be in danger of failing. To protect your implant from becoming compromised by the infection, come in immediately for treatment. We can help you clear up your gum infection and support your implant as you heal.
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Offer replacement options – If your dental implant has undergone trauma that requires its removal, Dr. Taylor will work with you to determine your best options. A couple of options are re-implanting after healing and potentially bone grafting or opting for a small dental bridge.
If your dental bridge or implant are giving you trouble, contact us for an appointment with Dr. Taylor today. He is a top cosmetic and general dentist in Billings, MT, and he can repair your smile in no time.
