What are the Replacement Options For A Missing Tooth?

Losing a tooth permanently can have lasting physical and psychological effects. It can cause lower self esteem, shifting of other teeth, and more. Fortunately, there are various tooth replacement options for you to consider that can prevent these issues. Tooth replacement can help you regain confidence and maintain the health of your other teeth. 

Is tooth replacement necessary?

In nearly all cases, it is recommended to replace a missing tooth. If you don't your mouth can suffer various physical issues due to tooth loss. One major issue is drifting. This is when the surrounding teeth move towards the space your missing tooth used to occupy. The shift can affect your gum line, increasing your susceptibility to periodontal disease.

Bone loss is yet another issue. Once you lose your teeth, the bone that supports your teeth starts shrinking. This is a natural process known as resorption. If you don't replace the missing teeth, you risk losing your jawbone's mass. Resorption is even worse when you have multiple missing teeth.

What Are My Tooth Replacement Options?

You have endless options when it comes to tooth replacement. These include bridges, implants, and dentures.

1. Implants

Implants are one of the most impressive advances in health and dentistry. Whether you want to replace a single tooth or an entire denture, you may want to consider getting dental implants. They come with numerous perks and can be a perfect solution to your missing teeth.

Why implants?

There are various reasons to go for implants. First, implants will restore your lovely smile and confidence. Secondly, they will prevent the weakening of your jawbone, which could cause other dental problems. 

Missing teeth can alter your speech, appearance and affect your chewing ability. But, implants resolve all these issues and more.

Who qualifies for implants?

Unfortunately, implants are not for everyone. To qualify for the procedure, you must undergo a dental examination to determine your suitability. If your bone isn't dense enough, it may not support the implant, which disqualifies you. Moreover, the dentist will also review your medical history for other conditions like diabetes and bone loss. There may be other health conditions that can affect the success of the procedure.

2. Bridges

If you lose one or two teeth, you can correct this with a fixed bridge. To undergo this procedure, you must have adequate and healthy dentition to support the bridge effectively. Different types of dental bridges can help you fill the gap and restore your smile. 

However, bridges require reducing a neighboring tooth, which raises the risk of possible nerve damage. The common types of dental bridges are; Cantilever bridges, Traditional dental bridges, and Maryland bridges.

3. Dentures

Partial dentures can help replace one or several missing teeth. The procedure requires support from neighboring teeth, but there's no significant preparation. If you have several missing teeth, you may have to consider a full set of teeth on your lower or upper jaw.

A quick wrap up

Most people don't understand the importance of tooth replacement. Although a missing tooth may not be painful, it can affect your dental health in many ways. To avoid this, consult with your dentist, and discuss the tooth replacement options available.