There are many reasons why you might lose one or more teeth. Dental trauma, tooth decay, gum disease, etc., can disrupt your daily routine and lifestyle. Regardless of why you lost a tooth, you must find a restorative solution quickly. If you consult your dentist, they can walk you through all the different tooth replacement options.
Why Fix Missing Teeth?
If you have missing teeth, it is vital to seek a replacement option. Unfortunately, some people don’t like going to the dentist, or the replacement process is overwhelming. As a result, it can be tempting not to choose an option at all. However, living without a replacement option is not a good idea. You can experience several damaging dental issues.
The way your teeth sit in your mouth is essential. Meaning—your teeth need to be sitting next to each other, side-by-side. It may not seem important, but the structure of your mouth helps minimize dental issues. Your teeth need the pressure of your other teeth to stay in place. If one goes missing, the pressure balance is interrupted. Without all of your teeth, your remaining teeth can loosen and even fall out.
Additionally, your gums and jaw bones need the pressure of all your teeth to remain healthy. When you lose one or more teeth, you can experience bone deterioration. This is because the teeth are no longer stimulating the gums and bones.
What are My Options?
There are several restorative options from which you can choose.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root made of titanium. One of the many benefits of a dental implant is the stability and durability that it provides. With proper care, a dental implant can last a lifetime. While the price or the length of the process can turn some patients away, it is worth it.
Your dentist will surgically implant the titanium root and wait for the jaw and gums to heal around the device. This will ensure that the implant doesn’t move and is fully integrated into your mouth. Later, you will return for two separate procedures where your dentist will install the post and the dental crown. Overall, the process can last several months.
Dentures
Dentures are one of the quickest, least invasive restorative options available. These are false teeth that restore the function of your teeth. Unlike dental implants and dental bridges, dentures are removable. This means you can and should take them out of your mouth daily. In addition, some patients don’t like that dentures can slip or move while eating or drinking. Yet, this device can allow you to eat and speak without the fear of losing more teeth.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are another type of prosthetic that utilizes your remaining natural teeth for support. This device “bridges” or fills the gap between your missing teeth using dental crowns. Your dentist will use dental crowns to cement the dental bridge in place. Fortunately, dental bridges can last a long time. However, you will eventually need to return to your dentist to get them replaced.