Fixing Missing Teeth
Losing a tooth or having one removed is not a fun experience. Fortunately, thanks to advances in modern dentistry, there are many tooth replacement options to help fix a missing tooth. Before you rush to have your missing tooth replaced, you should take some time to do your research and pick the option that is the best fit for you and your oral health needs. Here is more information about how to fix a missing tooth and the options that are available to you.
Popular Tooth Replacement Options
Tooth replacement options can range from quick efficient fixes to more permanent solutions. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best replacement option for you. Here are a few of the popular tooth replacement options:
- Removable Partial Dentures: When a front tooth is missing it can be embarrassing. A removable denture, that can be worn during the day, is a quick replacement option. Partial dentures are designed to attach to clasps within the mouth for easy removal. While removable partial dentures are easy, affordable, and pain free, they can lead to discomfort and may move a little when speaking.
- Temporary Denture: If several teeth are missing, a temporary full denture is a short-term solution for a quick replacement option. Temporary dentures are used when future tooth restoration is planned. Similar to partial dentures, temporary dentures are usually less sturdy, less bulky, and less expensive.
- Bridge: A bridge is a prosthetic attached to the natural teeth on both sides of the missing tooth. A bridge is securely attached in the mouth using cement. Preparing for a bridge involves filing down the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. Besides filing down healthy teeth, bridges can be difficult to keep clean, become loose or need to be repaired. However, a bridge can replace one or two missing teeth easily and affordably.
- Dental Implant: An implant is a permanent solution that feels and acts the most like a natural tooth. The implant procedure involves replacing the actual root of the missing tooth with a metal post and then placing a crown on top of the post. While implants are large investments of time and money, no future treatments are necessary. An implant is a great solution for a single missing tooth. Once installed, you can’t tell the difference between an implant and a natural tooth.
- Do Nothing: If your missing tooth isn’t bothering you, you always have the option to do nothing. If you decide to do nothing, it is important to know that when a tooth is missing, overtime the other teeth in the area will shift to fill the gap. This shifting of teeth can cause the overall appearance of the smile to change.
If you have recently lost a tooth, or need to have a tooth removed, you may be eager to have your missing tooth replaced. No one can blame you. Before you make a quick decision, you should do your research, have a discussion with your dentist, and take the time to decide which tooth replacement option is the best option for you.