Options for Tooth Replacement
Bridges
A bridge is a
dental device that replaces a row of one to three missing teeth. The
restorations are flanked on either side by crowns, which anchor the device by
fitting over the teeth adjacent to the gap. Most bridges are made from
porcelain fused to a ceramic or metal base. The bridge is a non-surgical restoration
option but once placed is fixed permanently in the mouth. This means you clean
them while brushing your teeth, so bridges are easy to care for.
Dentures
A denture
consists of one or more acrylic resin tooth restorations that is fused to a
metal and acrylic base that fits over your gums. They can replace any number of
missing teeth.
Like the
bridge, dentures are a non-surgical option for tooth replacement. However, the
dentures are removable and must be cleaned separately using a special denture
cleaner. Some people experience problems with dentures, mainly because they’re
not fixed permanently in the mouth and may sometimes move around.
Dental implants
As with
dentures, you can replace as many missing teeth as you need to with dental
implants. However, dentures and dental implants are different in most other
ways. For instance, dental implants are a surgical option for tooth
replacement, as the implants are metal posts that are fitted into the jawbone.
Once healed, the tooth restorations are permanently fixed to the implants.
Dental
implants are the most comprehensive replacement option, but for some people the
surgical requirement makes them less desirable.
Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth
Replacing
missing teeth has aesthetic benefits, of course—but there are several other
reasons why it’s a good idea to do it if you can.
- If you’re missing teeth, your ability to bite or chew properly may be impaired. Depending on the teeth you’re missing, this could limit your diet.
- Tooth loss can affect your speech, as many common sounds, including F, S, and TH, can’t be made properly if certain teeth are missing.
- Over time, tooth loss contributes to poor oral health, because adjacent teeth are destabilized and can shift into the gap. The end result is an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and more tooth loss.
- The chewing action of teeth helps keep the jawbone strong and stable. When teeth are missing the bone beneath the gap can get weaker over time. Dental implants are the one tooth replacement option that can prevent this happening. This is because they closely mimic the form and function of natural teeth.
Replace Missing Teeth ASAP
If you’re
missing one or more teeth it’s important to have them restored promptly. This
will help ensure that you’re not at risk of further oral health problems, and
may improve the appearance of your smile too.
