If you’re missing one or more teeth, I’m afraid that just letting it go and living without those teeth is not an option. You have to replace missing teeth so that other oral health problems don’t set in.
So what are your options?
You have three – all of which are effective in replacing missing teeth.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small rod, usually made of titanium, that is pushed into the gum to a hold a false tooth. One implant can replace more than one tooth. Generally, though, it takes five or six dental implants to replace all the teeth in the jaw.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture consists of a removable plate to which one or more false teeth are attached. The plate contains metal and plastic, making it very light and better supported by surrounding teeth.
It’s important to note that dentures need to be carefully cleaned. They should be brushed to remove food and soaked in a special denture cleaner to remove stains.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a false tooth, which is usually made of porcelain, and two crowns, used to attach the false tooth to the surrounding teeth. Bridge work can only be carried out at least six months after tooth loss. This is because gums need time to heal properly.
A dental bridge may not be suitable for everyone, especially if the neighboring teeth are not strong and healthy.
If you’re missing one or more teeth, it’s imperative that you get treatment. If that space is left unfilled in your mouth, the remaining teeth may shift and affect your bite. Facial muscles around the gap may sag, affecting your speech and appearance.
A quick examination can help us determine how to replace your missing teeth – and get you smiling again.
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