Get It Back, and Much More
Life with Missing Teeth
- A limited diet
- Speech difficulties
- Decreased self-confidence
- Jawbone loss
- Sunken facial appearance
Why Replace Damaged or Missing Teeth?
If treatment like root canals, gum disease treatment, and restorative dentistry are ineffective, damaged, infected, and failing teeth, should be removed to protect your dental health and even systemic health. Unless they’re wisdom teeth or extra teeth that are causing overcrowding in your mouth, most teeth should be replaced after removal. Apart from the ways tooth loss can decrease your quality of life, it can also trigger a sort of “domino effect” in your health. Without natural tooth roots stimulating healthy bone growth, your bone will begin to deteriorate beneath the empty tooth socket. This will spread and can even lead to additional tooth loss in adjacent teeth. Replacing your tooth before extensive bone loss can occur will help prevent unnecessary additional harm as well as the need for bone grafting procedures. If your bone is stable enough or has received bone reconstructive treatment, you’ll have the option between dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants for your new, complete smile.
Remedies for Missing Teeth
Dental Bridges
For one missing tooth or a series of missing teeth, dental bridges are frequently the first solution many patients think of. Dental bridges are made of a series of crowns that span the gap left behind by tooth loss. Requiring one or more adjacent teeth as the foundation of the bridge, called the abutment teeth, this solution requires that we remove some of the enamel of this tooth, or teeth, when placing your dental bridge in Woodbury, MN. Once placed, this solution is aesthetic and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting.
Dentures and Partials
Dentures are a time-tested, economical solution to tooth loss. They fit over your gums and stay in place either through suction or adhesive creams but can also be removed. You can have full or partial dentures; full dentures cover entire arches of teeth, essentially replacing all your teeth while partial dentures take the place of a few missing teeth in a row or throughout an arch.
Implant Supported Dentures
For additional stability, dentures can be anchored in your jawbone by dental implants. Implant supported dentures won’t slip out of place or irritate your gums and offer healthy bone stimulation. They also enable you to eat a greater variety of foods than standard dentures do.
Dental Implants
The best overall tooth replacement option available today is dental implants. They are the most natural-looking solution that can also last decades with proper care. Dental implants can replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or a full arch of teeth. Comprised partly of artificial tooth roots, they protect your jawbone from deterioration and thus your facial shape from changing. What’s more, they allow you to eat anything you want—hard foods, sticky foods, chewy foods, and whatever your favorites might be.
Tooth Replacement Options at a Glance
Dental Bridges
- Fixed
- Last 5+ years
- Attached to abutment tooth/teeth
- Do not prevent jawbone loss
- Greater food choices
Dentures & Partials
- Removable
- Last 5+ years
- May require adhesives
- Do not prevent jawbone loss
- Limited food choices
Implant Supported Dentures
- Removable or fixed
- Last 10+ years
- Attached by implants
- Limit jawbone loss
- Greater food choices
Dental Implants
- Fixed for unmatched stability
- Last decades
- Attached by implants
- Prevent jawbone loss
- Unlimited food choices
FAQs
The best option for missing teeth often depends on individual needs and preferences. Dental implants are considered one of the most durable and natural-looking solutions, as they replace both the tooth and its root. However, alternatives like bridges and dentures offer effective results for those seeking less invasive or more affordable options. Consulting with a dentist can help determine the most suitable treatment plan based on factors such as oral health, bone density, and budget.
Neglecting to replace missing teeth can lead to various oral health issues. Adjacent teeth may shift, causing misalignment and bite problems. Additionally, bone loss in the jaw can occur, leading to facial changes and a weakened dental structure. Over time, these issues can contribute to gum disease, decay, and further tooth loss. Seeking timely replacement options, such as dental implants or bridges, is crucial to preserving oral health and maintaining proper function and aesthetics.
Yes, a missing tooth is serious as it can lead to various oral health issues. Beyond affecting aesthetics and confidence, it can cause problems with chewing, speech, and jaw alignment. Adjacent teeth may shift, leading to bite misalignment and further tooth loss. Additionally, missing teeth can increase the risk of gum disease and bone loss in the jaw. Prompt treatment, such as dental implants or bridges, is essential to prevent complications and maintain oral health.
Ready to have your smile back?
Let’s discuss your options at Tamarack Hills Family Dentistry