Tooth loss does much more than just leave an embarrassing gap in your smile. Over time, major complications can arise, including the risk of misalignment, further tooth loss, an aged appearance, and even poorer overall health. Patients with missing teeth must often rely on diets of soft foods. How do you address tooth loss? What can be done to replace missing teeth?
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing Missing Teeth
Question: When do you prescribe a dental bridge?
Answer: If you’re missing between one and three teeth in a row, we may recommend a bridge, which is perfect for addressing minor tooth loss. The prosthetic consists of the pontics (replacement teeth) with a crown attached to each side. The crowns are then placed onto the teeth on either side of the gap in your smile, securing the replacement ones.
Question: What if I have advanced tooth loss?
Answer: If you’ve lost multiple teeth spread out across your smile, then we may prescribe a partial. The prosthetic will have an acrylic base (which will look like gum tissue) and the new teeth. Metal clasps will attach to the remaining natural teeth, holding the replacement teeth in place. If you’ve lost all or a majority of your teeth, then we may recommend a full denture. Again, there will be an acrylic base that looks like gum tissue, as well as a full row of lifelike ceramic teeth.
Question: Is a dental implant right for me?
Answer: A dental implant is actually surgically inserted into the jaw and acts like a new tooth root. We then attach a lifelike dental restoration. We can see if this option is right for you by examining your jawbone tissue and making sure you’re free of certain underlying health issues, such as gum disease. A dental implant can actually last for decades with proper care and attention.