People who are missing a tooth or multiple teeth tend to face a combination of cosmetic and health problems as a result of their tooth loss. Thankfully the team at our Missouri City dental practice have plenty of options for addressing various issues related to tooth loss.
Whether patients get removable dental appliances or safe and stable dental implants, the results can be dramatic. Let's go over the problems caused by missing teeth and then consider the different treatments available.
The Problems Associated with Missing Teeth
In terms of the cosmetic problems associated with missing teeth, a tooth gap or major gaps between teeth can leave a person feeling self-conscious about laughing, smiling, and speaking, even around people they have known for many years. Major tooth loss can also leave the cheeks and lips looking loose and hollow, which contributes to people looking much older than they really are.
In terms of dental health, missing teeth can cause your remaining teeth to shift out of position. Bone loss and gum recession in the area of the tooth gap can also impact the overall health and stability of your remaining teeth. On top of all this, it can be much more difficult to eat certain foods, meaning an impact on nutrition and general wellness.
Dental Bridges
For many people, a dental bridge is a good option to consider. Dental bridges are artificial sets of teeth that help bridge a gap between missing teeth. They remain in place by clasping around the natural teeth that are adjacent to the tooth gap.
Dentures
Dentures are an ideal option when a person is missing too many teeth for a dental bridge. Dentures are held in place by clasping around the dental arch. Denture creams and special dental adhesives can be used to help improve the hold of a denture.
There are partial dentures and full dentures available. Partial dentures are good for people missing a few teeth in a row, while full dentures are ideal for people who are missing most or all of their teeth.
Crown-Supported Dental Bridges
Traditional dental bridges are removable appliances. It's possible for dental bridges to be fixed in place, however. A crown-supported dental bridge is a traditional dental bridge that is bookended by dental crowns. The dental crowns are used to cap the teeth on either side of the tooth gap, securing the bridge in place. This means a more stable bridge and less likelihood of the bridge from slipping or falling out.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most stable option for people missing teeth. The implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue. Once the implants have fused with the existing tissues of the mouth, they will be able to support dental bridges, dentures, and even individual dental crowns. In essence, dental implants serve just the same purpose as your normal tooth roots.
Dental implants offer a level of stability that is unmatched. In addition, the dental implants help avoid bone loss and gum recession, something that removable appliances cannot do for patients.
Contact Fort Bend Dental
For more information about treating tooth loss and helping you smile with renewed confidence and wellness, be sure to contact our family dental care center today. We look forward to your visit and discussing these matters in greater detail.
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