When you are missing a molar, you have the ability to replace the tooth. However, before you can do so, it is important to know what options are available for replacing your missing tooth.

Bridge

One replacement option is to have a dentist create a bridge. In most cases, a dental bridge is comprised of two crowns and the false tooth. However, this method only works if you have a tooth on both sides of the space where you are missing a tooth.

To complete this process, the dentist makes two crowns and a false tooth that resemble your existing teeth. Then, the dentist slightly grinds down the enamel of the two teeth that will have the crowns. By grinding them down slightly, the new crowns will fit into the space without adding an extra bulkiness to your mouth.

So that the crowns do not come loose, the dentist will use an adhesive to hold them in place. Once the crowns are in place, the false tooth will fit directly into the space of the missing molar. This is a relatively easy process for replacing your missing molar.

Implant

There are times when a bridge is not a viable option. For example, if you are missing the molar furthest back in your mouth, you do not have a second tooth for the bridge to adhere too. In this situation, you will need to look for an alternative solution, which can be some type of implant.

Implants come in several forms, so you need to know which one will work for your situation. A traditional implant for example, requires an oral surgeon to place a metal rod into your jawbone. The surgeon creates a small hole with a drill and inserts the rod into the bone. After the site heals, the dentist will then attach the abutment or false tooth to complete the process.

If your jawbone does not have enough mass for a traditional implant, you can look into subperiosteal implants. With this type of implant, a metal plate is surgically placed on top of the jawbone and below the gum line. There is a small metal rod attached to the plate that protrudes through the gums and after the area heals, the dentist attaches the abutment to the rods.

All forms of dental implants take time to heal, so you need to consider this before choosing a replacement option. It is in your best interest to discuss all of your available options with a dentist that offers both bridges and implants. The dentist can evaluate your mouth and then recommend the best replacement option for your personal situation. For more information, visit sites like http://elmafamilydental.com.