As your dental care professionals, it is our job to protect and preserve your natural teeth. However, unfortunately, sometimes disease, decay, and trauma can lead to tooth loss. When you lose a tooth, it can be both embarrassing and annoying. Luckily, there are a variety of tooth replacement options available to you.
Why do I need my teeth replaced?
Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic problem. When your teeth fall out or need to be removed, they leave an empty space in your gums. Because of this extra space, all of your other teeth may begin to shift. This can lead to a crooked smile, spacing issues, and problems with your bite. Additionally, missing teeth can cause your jawbone to begin to deteriorate. They can also make simple everyday tasks, like having a conversation or enjoying a meal, that much harder. Finally, missing teeth can make your facial muscles sag and droop which will make you look older than you actually are. All in all, if you are missing teeth, it is very important to consider replacement options.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a popular method of tooth replacement because they offer a permanent solution to missing teeth. Implants are not removable and are surgically implanted into your jawbone. The implant fuses to your jaw, making the device feel just like a natural tooth. Implants are comprised of a titanium base and a dental crown. The dental crown is made just for you and is crafted to look like your remaining teeth. The entire dental implant placement process can take a few months to complete, but when properly cared for, they can last for years. If you are looking for a permanent way to fix your smile, dental implants may be for you.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixture that connects a fake tooth to two dental crowns that are placed over your existing teeth. Dental bridges can be removable or permanent. Removable bridges will attach to your teeth via metal clasps, while permanent bridges are bonded to your remaining teeth. With your dental bridge, you will be able to speak and chew normally again. Because your bridge is customized and tailored to your mouth, it will be almost undetectable and will restore the appearance of your smile.
Dentures
Dentures are a removable appliance that can be used for teeth replacement if you are missing the majority of or all of your teeth. There are a few different kinds of dentures. Conventional dentures replace all of your teeth and are crafted after your gums and tissue heal from getting any remaining teeth extracted. The downside to conventional dentures is that you will be toothless until your mouth is healed and ready for the appliance. Immediate full dentures can be worn right after your teeth have been removed. The advantage of these is that you will not have to go without teeth, however, these dentures will need to be adjusted by a dentist as your mouth heals. You can wear your dentures while you eat and drink, but make sure to wash them properly after each meal. You also need to brush your tongue and gums to keep your mouth free of unwanted bacteria. One of the biggest complaints with dentures is that they do not stay in place and tend to slide around, however, with modern advances in denture technology this is not as big of a concern.
How do I care for my teeth replacements?
The best way to care for your replacement appliances, whether they are implants, dentures, or bridges, is to practice good oral health care habits. Proper oral hygiene will limit the amount of unwanted bacteria and food particles in your mouth and will help keep your appliances healthy and functioning for years. It is also important to see your dentist regularly for hygiene appointments and checkups.
With teeth replacement options, you will be able to speak, eat, and smile again. If you are missing one or more teeth, it is time to explore your replacement options. If you want to learn more about a certain service, or would like our expert opinions on what the best replacement option for you would be, call us today at (513)-895-9470.
