subject: Tooth Loss- Understand What Options You Have [print this page] If you have lost one or more teeth, there are several options available for restoring your smile. Millions of adults have lost one ore more of their teeth due to oral diseases such as gum disease, or due to injury. Missing teeth make chewing difficult, cause problems speaking, and impact a person's sense of self-esteem. When you lose a tooth, or multiple teeth, visiting your dentist for proper diagnosis and treatment is vital. With advancements in dentistry, your dentist in Jackson can replacing missing teeth with dental implants, bridges or removable appliances such as dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that your dentist inserts into your jaw to replace lost teeth. The placement of dental implants involves surgical placement of a metal post into the bone underneath your gums. A replacement tooth, called a crown, will be attached to the post, giving the appearance of a natural tooth. In cases where you are missing multiple teeth, or all of your teeth, dental implants can be used in conjunction with bridges or dentures to make sure these tooth replacements are secure.
Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants, but with a proper consultation with your Jackson cosmetic dentist you can be properly assessed for implants to replace your missing teeth. To receive dental implants, you must be in good overall health, your jawbone must be able to adequately hold the implants in place, and your gum tissue should be healthy and free of disease.
Dental Bridges
Also referred to as a fixed partial denture, a dental bridge may be an appropriate tooth replacement option for you. Dental bridges get their name because they bridge the gap between your missing tooth or teeth and your surrounding teeth. To place the bridge, your dentist will bond it onto the teeth that surround the gap caused by the missing teeth. Dental bridges can be made from an array of materials, including gold, alloys, and porcelain (with porcelain being the most popular choice). Bridges can also help maintain the shape of your face and the integrity of your bite, and allow you to chew, speak, and smile with more ease and confidence.
Removable Appliances: Dentures
If you have lost all or most of your teeth, dentures may be an appropriate smile restoration solution for you. Complete dentures and overdentures are two common types of dentures used to replace missing teeth. Complete dentures are used when you have no teeth remaining, or when the teeth that do remain need to be removed. These dentures cover both your upper and lower gums. If all of your teeth are removed, you dentist will give you an immediate denture to wear until your gums have healed and a conventional denture can be custom designed for you.
Overdentures are removable dentures that can be used if you still have some remaining natural teeth, or have dental implants. Overdentures should only be used if your remaining teeth or dental implants are able to provide adequate support. Similar to bridges, dentures can also help you maintain your facial shape and your self-esteem.
If you are missing teeth, talk to your Jackson cosmetic dentist about an appropriate treatment plan for restoring your smile. With an array of treatment options available, including dental implants, bridges and dentures, you can smile and eat with confidence.
