If you have a tooth too damaged to be saved by a root canal, your dentist in St. Cloud, MN, may recommend an extraction. When you have a tooth extracted, this means your dentist removes it, root and all. However, there’s more to an extraction than just taking out the troublesome tooth. To prevent dental problems down the road, your dental professional will discuss options for filling the empty space left behind.

Why Do I Need to Replace an Extracted Tooth?

Extracted teeth, even ones that aren’t noticeable when you smile, must be replaced with some sort of prosthetic device. Otherwise, you run the risk of suffering bone loss. Bone loss can cause big problems if it’s not abated, including:

• Shifting of teeth
• Wrinkles around the mouth
• Changes in facial structure
• Difficulty biting and chewing
• Speech impediment

To prevent these issues from happening, your St. Cloud dentist will recommend several options for tooth replacement. They’ll work with you to decide which option is best for your situation.

What Are My Options for Tooth Replacement After an Extraction?

Usually, your dentist will recommend one of three options to replace an extracted tooth. These include:

• Dental implant
• Partial denture
• Fixed bridge

Dental Implant

A post is implanted into the jawbone beneath the missing tooth. Once the post has bonded to the jawbone, a process that usually takes several months, an abutment is placed atop the post and a crown is added. The crown looks and functions like a natural tooth.

Partial Denture

A partial denture is a prosthetic tooth that’s removable for sleeping and cleaning. It looks and functions like your natural tooth, and metal clips that attach to surrounding teeth usually hold it in place.

Fixed Bridge

A fixed bridge is cemented into place and is not removable. It looks like a row of several teeth because the surrounding natural teeth are filed down to accept the hollow prosthetic teeth at each end of the bridge. The tooth in the middle fills the empty socket where your real tooth was extracted.

Aftercare for Your Tooth Extraction in St. Cloud, MN

If you need options for replacing an extracted tooth in St. Cloud, MN, Friesz Family and Cosmetic Dentistry can help. Call today to schedule a consultation with a member of our experienced and friendly team.