Tooth loss can occur for a variety of reasons. Whether through facial trauma, gum disease, or tooth decay, missing teeth can cause a number of problems. Not only can missing teeth cause discomfort while speaking and eating, but gaps can also significantly impact the aesthetics of your smile as well as your future oral health.
Empty pockets in your gums can become a breeding ground for bacteria that cause gum disease. Without the support your teeth give each other, the teeth surrounding the gap will eventually shift and move as they try to fill the void. Furthermore, without the root of your tooth to stimulate the jawbone while eating, you will likely experience accelerated loss of bone mass.
Standard Restoration Methods
There are several methods for restoring your smile after the loss of one or several teeth. Whatever you and your dentist choose for a treatment option will depend on your unique dental situation and needs.
When it comes to traditional restorations, there are two main options available to you: Bridges and dentures.
Bridges are rows of ceramic restorations capable of replacing up to three missing teeth. They are custom-made to match the natural shape and color of your dental structure and are anchored to the surrounding teeth using crowns. Unfortunately, this can mean having to apply crowns to teeth that might otherwise be perfectly healthy.
Dentures are full or partial restorations that replace multiple, if not all, of your teeth. These can be supported by brackets that secure them to your surround teeth or may simply rely on suction or dental adhesive. Dentures are removable and require daily cleaning.
Implant-Supported Restorations
It is now possible to replace missing teeth with restorations that completely renew function and comfort. Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically embedded in the jawbone. Due to titanium's biocompatible nature, the body doesn't recognize it as a foreign substance, so the post is able to fuse to the bone. Restorations can be placed on these posts, resulting in unrivaled sturdiness and functionality.
Any prosthetic option can be placed on the implant, whether it be dentures, bridges, or even crowns for filling a single gap. A full row of teeth, whether upper or lower, can be replaced using only four implants with all-on-four dentures.
Find Out More About Restorative Dentistry Options
At the practice of Steven F. Stanley, DDS, our team has a special focus on prosthodontics and restoration dentistry. We proudly serve smiles to the people of Los Angeles, as well as the communities of Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, and Mid-Wilshire.
If you'd like to learn more about options for tooth replacement, call and schedule an appointment today!