Having gaps in your mouth due to missing teeth can significantly impact your self-esteem. Did you know that if you don’t try to replace them as soon as possible, you could experience other health problems? Take good care of your oral and overall health by getting tooth replacements from a skilled dentist!
How Do People Lose Teeth?
Tooth loss can occur in many different ways, but the primary cause for most adults is gum disease. Neglecting your teeth by slacking on your oral care practices or not protecting them during sports can increase your chances of them falling out.
Below are some of the other common reasons a person might be missing one or several teeth:
- Injury
- Severe gum disease
- Extractions
- Certain diseases
- Poor dental habits
Risks of Not Replacing a Missing Tooth
Dental professionals recommend replacing a missing tooth as soon as possible to protect the health of your remaining teeth. Several things could go wrong if you wait too long, and it might end up costing you a lot more in the long run.
Below are some of the issues you may face if you don’t seek a tooth replacement option as soon as possible:
Crowding and Misalignment
Did you know that your teeth constantly put pressure on the neighboring ones? If one of them is missing, it could cause the surrounding teeth to shift. You’ll then end up with teeth that are crowded or misaligned, and then you’ll need an orthodontic treatment to correct that issue.
Periodontal Issues
Empty dental sockets are ideal areas for food particles and bacteria to become trapped. Those areas become harder to clean once bacteria and plaque form in them. This increases your chances of getting gum disease.
Difficulty Eating and Speaking
Your teeth play a greater role in your speech than you might realize. Making certain sounds requires the teeth and tongue to touch, so some words may become harder to pronounce if you have even one missing tooth. Gaps in your mouth can also make it difficult to chew properly.
Bone Loss
Your jawbone is responsible for anchoring your teeth in place. Without the roots stimulating them, the surrounding bone will begin to deteriorate. This can result in you losing even more teeth and can even change the way you look. Without enough jawbone, your face will appear more sunken, and your jawline will diminish.
Self Esteem Issues
The gaps in your mouth and the effects tooth loss can have on your face can make many people feel worse about their appearance. They can result in you not wanting to go out or meet new people for fear of judgment.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
Fortunately, patients have several options for replacing their missing teeth. Depending on your preferences or how many you’re missing, you can choose from one of the three tooth-replacement options.
Dentures
Traditional dentures are removable and resemble your natural teeth. They come in different forms depending on how many teeth you’re missing. These include:
- Full dentures – replace an entire arch
- Partial dentures – replace a few missing teeth
Your dentures should last up to a decade with the proper care. They must be removed at night, cleaned daily, and soaked in denture solution nightly. There are also options for implant-supported dentures if you’re looking for a more long-term solution.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the more popular ways to restore missing teeth and are the only option that replaces both the tooth and its root. The implant post is typically made of titanium and acts as the root.
They’re ideal for replacing a single missing tooth, but there are also implant options that can replace multiple and even all your teeth.
Dental Brides
Dental bridges are ideal for those who are missing several teeth. They “bridge” the gap in your mouth and consists of one or several false teeth and the anchor. To get this tooth replacement option, the teeth on either side of the gap must be healthy enough to support the bridge.
Which Option is Best for You?
Some people choose certain options based on preferences, but others might be a better choice based on your oral health. Your remaining teeth must be strong so that they can support the anchor of the bridge. If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, you need adequate jawbone to support the implant.
Restorative Dentistry in Marco Island Can Give You a Fuller Smile
As you can see, you have several ways you can replace your missing teeth with restorative dentistry. The key to getting the results you want is to go to a dentist skilled in restorative dentistry and by properly caring for your new dental restoration. Following these two rules can guarantee you a full, new smile to show the world with pride.
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