If you have one or more missing teeth, you may hesitate to fill in the gaps. You may reason that you still have enough teeth to chew food, and you may not be that concerned about aesthetics. However, even one missing tooth can serious oral health problems! Let’s talk about why you should speak to a dentist about restoring your smile and the treatments that may provide a suitable way to replace missing teeth.
Reasons to Fill in the Gap
One of the primary reasons to replace missing teeth has to do with the fact that your pearly whites are not permanently fixed in place. They’re attached to your bone via tiny, stretchy ligaments that allow your teeth to move. When one of your teeth goes missing, the ones around it may drift out of place. This can lead to misalignment, an uncomfortable bite, and premature wear and tear on your remaining teeth. In some cases, the tooth opposite an empty space may overerupt (extend too far out of the gum line). It could even fall out altogether.
Another problem associated with tooth loss is bone deterioration. Once your jaw no longer has a tooth to support, your body may begin to resorb the bone that once supported it. If you are missing several teeth, this process can even change the shape of your face.
Ways to Replace Missing Teeth
Modern dentistry offers several treatments to replace missing teeth. One popular option is a fixed bridge, sometimes called crown and bridge. This type of prosthesis contains two crowns that get permanently attached to the natural teeth that are adjacent to the gap in your smile. They support an artificial tooth (or teeth) between them. A fixed bridge can be quite sturdy and natural-looking. This is a popular treatment for individuals who are missing just one or two teeth.
An even better option for regaining your lost teeth is dental implants, small titanium posts that replace the roots of missing teeth. They can support a crown, bridge, or even a full denture. They offer numerous advantages:
- Unlike a traditional crown and bridge, dental implants don’t require any alteration of existing teeth.
- Since implants bond with the bone around them, they help to keep the jaw strong and healthy.
- Implants provide a natural appearance and strong bite force.
- Implants have the potential to last a lifetime.
Your Ideal Tooth Replacement Treatment
Many dentists advocate dental implants as the ideal way to replace missing teeth, but they aren’t right for everyone. If you would like a personalized recommendation on the best way for you to reclaim your lost pearly whites, visit your dentist for an in-depth consultation. After they examine your mouth and learn about your personal preferences, they’ll design a custom treatment plan.
Is your smile incomplete? Explore your tooth replacement options so you can get on the road to a healthier, more beautiful mouth.
About the Author
Dr. Joanne Bancroft has been practicing dentistry for over 15 years. She has particular expertise in the fields of dental implants and cosmetic treatments. If you would like to speak to her about replacing your missing teeth, contact our office at 720-458-6561.