If you’ve lost a tooth, it’s easy to assume you’re stuck with a missing tooth forever. But that isn’t the case. There are multiple ways to replace missing teeth, and your Arlington dentist can tell you right away what restorative dentistry solutions you’re eligible for based on the condition of your oral health and smile makeover goals.
Oral Health Problems Caused by Missing Teeth
Missing teeth are a big problem, and not only because they interrupt the appearance of your smile. When a tooth is missing, it creates functional problems, like:
- An unhealthy jawbone
- Eventual facial collapse
- Damaged gum tissue
- Shifting teeth
While some teeth are lost because of an accident or a blow to the mouth, others are lost because of necessary extraction or gum disease. This condition, when it advances significantly, will cause the gums to pull away from the teeth and roots, create pockets that fill with pus, and lead to lost teeth.
Whatever the reason for a lost tooth, your dentist needs to know the cause first so any problems can be addressed before the tooth is replaced. Gum disease, for instance, must be cleaned up first before a restoration can be done. Acute damage may need some time to heal before a dental repair can take place. Rest assured, though, that all dental problems can be fixed – the only question is which repair is right for you.
4 Ways to Replace Missing Teeth
Not every type of dental restoration is right for every patient. The cause of your missing tooth or teeth, the condition of your oral health now, your budget, and your smile goals are all things your dentist will take into consideration. The most common and effective ways to replace missing teeth include:
- Dental implants: These restorations look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Dental implants can replace one tooth, multiple teeth, or an entire arch of teeth to give you a complete smile that works as it should. The procedure takes time and patience, especially for healing time, but it is permanent once the implants are fused to the jawbone.
- Snap-on dentures: Two dental implants are surgically placed in the jaw and dentures are snapped into place, eliminating the need for adhesive and covering the palate. Snap-on dentures are a stable solution that eliminates ill-fitting dentures, soreness, slipping, and self-consciousness.
- Dental bridge: One or two missing teeth are easily repaired with a dental bridge that literally bridges the hole and fills the gap with a customized restoration. The bridge is anchored in place with dental crowns for a strong, long-lasting repair.
- Partial dentures: If you have several teeth missing in one area of your mouth but aren’t missing an entire arch of teeth, partial dentures can be customized from a metal framework, and plastic teeth and gums for a natural-looking solution that clasps in place to fill the hole in your smile. This is one of the more affordable restorations for missing teeth.
Replace Missing Teeth at Arlington, TX, Dentist Near Me
Missing teeth negatively impact appearance and self-esteem, so it’s time to do something about it. Visit Dr. Alana Macalik to find out if you’re a good candidate for dental implants or other restorations for missing teeth. Schedule a consultation today.