Losing a tooth can affect more than just your smile. It can also mess up your bite and lead to other dental issues. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, you should get treatment as soon as possible. Waiting too long can cause your teeth to shift, your bite to become uneven, and even lead to bone loss in your jaw.
The good news is there’s several options to replace missing teeth in Baltimore, MD, and restore your smile.
Why Replacing Missing Teeth is Important
When you lose a tooth, it doesn’t just leave a gap in your smile. The teeth next to the gap can start to shift out of place, your gums become more vulnerable to infection, and your bite can become uneven. Over time, you might even lose bone density in your jaw, which can change the shape of your face. But if you replace your missing teeth quickly, you can avoid these problems and keep your mouth healthy.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
Depending on how many teeth you’re missing and where they are, your dentist can recommend different treatments to restore your smile. Here are the most common options:
1. Dental Implants
If you’re missing a single tooth, a dental implant is often the best choice. Implants are small titanium posts that act like artificial tooth roots. They’re placed into your jawbone during a minor surgical procedure. Once the implant heals, your dentist will attach a dental crown to it, making it look and function just like a natural tooth.
Implants are great because they help preserve your jawbone and prevent bone loss. However, not everyone is a candidate for implants. If you have gum disease or significant bone loss, you might need additional treatments before getting an implant.
2. Dental Bridges
A Dental bridge is another option for replacing one or more missing teeth in a row. Bridges are made up of artificial teeth that are held in place by crowns on the teeth next to the gap. There are two main types of bridges:
- Implant-Secured Bridges: These are anchored by dental implants for extra stability.
- Traditional Bridges: These are supported by crowns on the neighboring teeth.
Your dentist will examine your mouth and recommend the best type of bridge for your situation.
3. Dentures and Partial Dentures
If you’re missing multiple teeth or even a full arch of teeth, dentures might be the right choice for you. Dentures are removable appliances that replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Here are a few common types of dentures:
- Implant-Secured Dentures: These are attached to dental implants for a more secure fit.
- Immediate Dentures: These are temporary dentures you can wear while waiting for a more permanent solution.
- Partial Dentures: Partials are best if you’re only missing a few teeth. They’re held in place with clips or clasps.
Dentures can help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They’re a great option if you’re not ready for implants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will tooth replacement improve my speech if I have missing front teeth?
Yes, replacing missing front teeth can greatly improve speech clarity. Gaps in the front can affect how you pronounce certain words, especially sounds like “s,” “f,” or “th.” A properly fitted tooth replacement restores natural spacing and tongue placement. Once in place, most patients notice better speech almost immediately.
Is it possible to combine different replacement options for multiple missing teeth?
Yes, your dentist can combine treatments like implants, bridges, and partial dentures to rebuild your smile. This approach is beneficial when tooth loss is spread across different areas of your mouth. The goal is to create a stable, functional bite while maintaining a natural appearance. A custom plan ensures the best fit and long-term results.
Are partial dentures stable while eating or talking?
A well-made partial denture should feel secure and allow you to eat and speak confidently. However, it may take a short adjustment period to get used to the fit. Over time, changes in your mouth may require relining or adjustments to maintain stability. Good care and regular dental visits help keep them functioning properly.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for implant-secured dentures?
You may be a good candidate if you have enough healthy jawbone to support implants and are free from untreated gum disease. Implant-supported dentures are ideal for those who want more stability than traditional removable dentures offer. A dental exam with X-rays or scans will determine if your bone structure is strong enough. Your overall health and goals will also help guide the treatment plan.
Can missing teeth lead to TMJ or jaw problems?
Yes, missing teeth can throw off your bite and force your jaw to work harder while chewing. This imbalance can strain the TMJ, leading to jaw pain, headaches, or stiffness over time. Replacing missing teeth helps restore balance and reduce stress on the joint. Addressing tooth loss early can prevent further complications.
Will a dental bridge affect the health of the surrounding teeth?
Traditional bridges rely on the neighboring teeth for support, which means those teeth must be shaped and fitted with crowns. This can put extra pressure on them, especially over time. With good oral care and regular checkups, the supporting teeth can stay healthy. Implant-supported bridges are an alternative that doesn’t impact surrounding teeth.
Do immediate dentures require adjustments after healing?
Yes, immediate dentures almost always need adjustments after the gums and bone heal. As your mouth changes shape in the weeks following extraction, the denture’s fit can loosen. Your dentist may reline or remake the denture to improve comfort and function. Regular follow-ups are key to ensuring a proper fit during the healing process.
Don’t Wait to Replace Missing Teeth
The longer you wait to replace a missing tooth, the more problems it can cause. Shifting teeth, bone loss, and an uneven bite are just a few of the issues that can arise if you delay treatment. Replacing your missing teeth as soon as possible can help you avoid these problems and keep your mouth healthy.
If you’re missing teeth, don’t wait to get treatment. At Cosmetic & Advanced Dentistry, we offer a many options to replace missing teeth and restore your smile. Whether you need an implant, a bridge, or dentures, we’re here to help. Call us today at (410) 697-6290 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.
Missing teeth can cause a lot of problems, but there are plenty of ways to fix them. From dental implants to bridges and dentures, there’s a solution for every situation. Don’t let missing teeth hold you back.