Missing Teeth? We Can Help! | Hancock Village Dental

Gum disease, tooth decay, and injury are all common causes of missing teeth. Genetic factors can also contribute to missing teeth, including inherited disorders that are passed down from one generation to the next. Regardless of the cause of your missing teeth, treatment is possible.

Missing teeth should be replaced whenever possible for jaw support, proper chewing of food, stability of the remaining natural teeth, and an attractive smile. When one or more teeth are missing, it can cause nearby teeth to move, tip, or shift into the empty space. Ideally, a tooth should be replaced soon after it is lost instead of waiting many years, which give other teeth in the mouth the chance to move.

Treatment for missing teeth will depend on multiple factors, such as the state of the patient’s overall oral health, the number of teeth missing, the location of the missing tooth/teeth, and the patient’s budget. Learn more about the impact of missing teeth and common treatment options for treating tooth loss.

Impact of Missing Teeth

Having one or more teeth removed can have a negative impact on your oral and overall health. The impact of tooth loss can cause:

Difficulty biting and chewing
Altered bite
Dietary issues, including insufficient eating
Loss and deterioration of bone
Lowered self-esteem
Weakened jaw muscles
Increased risk for further tooth loss or dental issues

Treatment Options for Missing Teeth

Your dentist can offer a number of treatment options for missing teeth. These innovative treatments are designed to restore a person’s appearance and dental function by providing a natural-looking solution. Here’s a look at some of the most popular treatment options for missing teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants can be used to replace one or multiple missing teeth. This reliable type of tooth replacement looks and feels like a real tooth. They are also one of the most effective options available and there is no involvement of your neighboring teeth needed. Dental implants are considered a permanent, lifelong tooth replacement option. However, they are one of the most expensive treatment options.

Dental Bridges

Bridges are a great option when a patient needs to replace multiple missing teeth at once. A bridge is a set of artificial teeth that are attached to a bracket or “bridge” and cemented to supporting structures. Several appointments are usually needed to place a bridge but the procedure is not as invasive as dental implants. Along with tooth-supported bridges, patients can opt for an implant-supported bridge which is supported on either end with implants for a more natural look.

Why Replace a Missing Tooth?

There are several reasons why your dentist in Clermont may recommend replacing missing teeth as soon as possible. First, having a full set of teeth can make you appear more youthful and healthier.

Replacing missing teeth can help prevent facial sagging and maintain the structure of the face. Your overall health can also improve as tooth replacement can help keep the jawbone strong and prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Your smile and speech will both be enhanced. You’ll feel more confident when you smile and your tooth replacement will allow for clearer speech. Finally, replacing your missing teeth can help restore function. You’ll be able to enjoy many of your favorite foods again and can chew normally.

Visit Hancock Village Dental

Many people have experienced a missing tooth at one time or another. Fortunately, modern dentistry has given people many more options for tooth replacement than in decades past. If you are looking for a long-lasting solution for your missing tooth or teeth, we can help. Reach out to Hancock Village Dental today to schedule an appointment.