The Space Between: Treatments for Missing Teeth
The people of Staten Island know that they can trust our team to help them smile with confidence again. Even when facing major issues with dental wellness, we offer advanced restorative dentistry treatments, all of which can improve the look of a smile as well as its overall ability to function.
Missing teeth are one such dental problems we are well-equipped to handle. Let's consider some of your options for treatment.
The Problems Associated with Missing Teeth
If you are missing a tooth or multiple teeth, there are a number of problems that you may face.
For one, missing teeth cause a number of aesthetic/cosmetic problems. If you are even just missing one this, this can make you hesitant to smile and laugh, even around people you have known for years. Many missing teeth can also lead to a sunken-in or hollow look around the cheeks and lips.
In addition to the issue with aesthetics, missing teeth can also result in a number of wellness issues. Eating certain foods can be more difficult, meaning greater chance of nutritional deficiencies. Bone loss and gum recession may also occur due to tooth loss given the lack of root structure.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a good treatment option to consider for people who are missing a tooth or a few teeth. These appliances help bridge the gap when you are missing a tooth. They are held in position by latching around the remaining tooth structure adjacent to the tooth gap.
Partial and Full Dentures
When a person is missing many teeth in a row, the ideal option is typically a partial denture or a full denture. A bridge is not longer possible since there is not sufficient tooth structure to clasp around. A denture is instead held in place by bracing around the the dental arch. A denture cream/dental adhesive can be placed to improve stability.
Crown-Supported Dental Bridges
While removable dental bridges are a strong option for tooth loss, it is also possible to have a dental bridge placed that is fixed in position. This is known as a crown-supported dental bridge. These bridges have crowns on either side of the appliance. The crowns cap the teeth adjacent to the tooth gap, ensuring stability.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are used to hold dental appliances in place when a person is missing a tooth or a few teeth. They are surgically embedded into the jawbone and gum tissue, where they fuse with the living structures of the mouth. Dental implants offer the most secure hold for dental appliances, and they can be used to support bridges, dentures, and even individual dental crowns.
Since oral surgery is required for dental implants, not all people are eligible to receive them. We can go over this and other factors regarding candidacy during a consultation.
Finding a Treatment Just for You
Treating tooth loss means customizing care to meet your needs. During a consultation at our practice, we will be sure to create a custom treatment plan just for you. We will be more than happy to answer your questions and address your concerns as they arise.
Learn More About Treating Tooth Loss
For more information about treating tooth loss and helping you smile with renewed confidence, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team at our practice is here to help you.
