If smiling makes you feel embarrassed, you may consider seeing a cosmetic dentist. In this article, you will discover some of the solutions available for replacing missing teeth. Having missing teeth can affect people's confidence and self-esteem. Modern tooth replacement solutions provide oral functions and look and feel like natural teeth.
When it comes to replacing lost teeth, the most suitable option depends on the number of missing teeth and the patient's oral health condition. Some of the available options include:
Dentures are recommended for those missing several or all of their teeth and can restore dental functions and the smile's aesthetic appeal. The cosmetic dentist will start by taking the patient's dental impressions. The impressions will be transferred to a dental lab, where a customized denture set will be fabricated. When the denture is ready, the dentist will check it for proper fit and adjust it if necessary. Patients will get proper instructions on caring for their dentures and ensuring they last a long time.
Several denture options are available for patients. Partial dentures are typically used when only a few teeth are missing, while full dentures are for the entire dental arch. The denture can be held in place with adhesives, a snap-on mechanism, or dental implants. The materials used for the restoration can also be acrylic or porcelain. Dentures supported by implants are highly durable and stronger than regular dentures.
Bridges are often confused with partial dentures. Unlike partial dentures that use snap-on mechanisms, bridges involve placing a crown on the teeth adjacent to the gap to serve as anchors for the replacement teeth. It is usually used to replace one to three teeth that are missing consecutively. Bridges can prevent surrounding teeth from shifting into the gap and disrupting the alignment. In addition, the dentist can customize the bridge to blend in with the rest of the teeth.
Dental implants are the most natural-looking and durable solution for missing teeth. With proper care and maintenance, dental implants can last a lifetime. The procedure involves placing a small titanium post inside the jawbone. Before the procedure, the dental professional will ensure the patient has adequate jawbone volume to support the implant. In some cases, additional procedures, like a bone graft, may be necessary to ensure the implant has a sturdy foundation.
Dental implants can be used for single-tooth replacement or restoring multiple missing teeth. The implant can support a dental crown, bridge, or denture. When several teeth are missing, multiple implants will be placed along the jaw to ensure adequate support for the denture. The dentist will discuss the right option based on your condition.
If you are wondering what options a cosmetic dentist will recommend for replacing your missing teeth, you should consider booking an appointment to find out. The dental professional will examine your oral cavity and recommend a tooth replacement option to help restore your smile's function and appearance.
Here are frequently asked questions about missing teeth:
Unfortunately, accidents and injuries sometimes result in tooth loss, which is unpreventable. However, those who engage in contact sports should see a dentist about getting a custom protective mouthguard.
Patients may take preventative measures against tooth loss since this is often the result of gum disease or dental decay. Preventive care requires regular trips to the dentist for checkups and cleanings, as well as diligent at-home care for the teeth and gums.
Millions of individuals do not bother getting a replacement tooth because they do not think they need it, either because the gap is hidden when they smile or because they do not think anybody would notice. However, missing teeth may lead to other issues. Thus, dentists recommend replacing the lost tooth. First, the gap created by the missing tooth causes unnecessary stress on the neighboring teeth and jaw.
If decay or gum disease leads to the tooth's removal, the problem might spread to adjacent teeth. Patients may suffer serious health effects if an infection spreads into the circulation. The most noticeable effect of tooth loss is a less attractive smile, which may negatively impact one's confidence and sense of self-worth.
Factors that affect the cost of replacing a tooth include the kind of replacement chosen, the number of teeth that need replacement, the experience and training of the dentist, and the dental office. As part of your first dental consultation, your dentist will go through the estimated cost of your treatment. When it comes to the cost of dental work, several offices offer payment plans.
Please request an appointment here: https://smilecenterdentalcare.com or call Smile Center Dental Care at (253) 336-0023 for an appointment in our Federal Way office.
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