A missing tooth can have consequences on oral health and self-confidence. The good news is that periodontists have several tooth replacement options to restore a patient’s smile, no matter where the lost tooth was located. Whether through surgical or nonsurgical tooth replacements, periodontists can effectively fill gaps in your smile, improve bite function and force, and boost your confidence.
When left alone, gaps in the smile can cause several problems. The first is a weakened bite and chewing function. In addition, the surrounding teeth will be free to shift into the gap, causing crooked or crowded teeth. This can make it harder to clean the teeth, which increases the risk of tooth discoloration and decay. The underlying jawbone that previously supported the missing tooth will also be prone to shrinking. As a result, the face and jaw may take on a different look.
Even in the best-case scenario where none of the remaining teeth shift, or the jawbone does not have time to shrink, the gap left by a missing tooth can negatively affect self-image. Tooth replacement can restore self-esteem and confidence by filling this gap. It will also combat the oral health effects mentioned above.
Periodontists offer many tooth replacement options, the most common of which are dental implants, dental bridges, partial dentures, and flipper teeth. Explore these options below.
Dental implants are metal posts that replace the tooth root and support tooth replacements. Typically, these replacements are dental crowns. However, if more than one tooth is missing, the periodontist can cement a dental prosthetic that replaces several to a full arch of teeth.
The benefits of implants include their ability to last a lifetime, preserving the jawbone and shape without relying on surrounding structures for support. Moreover, the end result will look and feel natural.
Dental bridges are a popular nonsurgical tooth replacement in which a false tooth called a pontic is anchored by dental crowns or wings. These anchoring structures are cemented on either the natural teeth or dental implants on one or both sides of the gap. A periodontist may recommend bridges to replace one to four consecutive missing teeth.
Most people think of dentures as replacing a full set of teeth. However, patients can get partial dentures to replace several missing teeth or a flipper tooth to replace a single tooth in the same way as dentures. These options consist of an artificial tooth or teeth attached to a gum-colored base. Like a full set of dentures, these removable tooth replacements sit on top of the gums, fitting almost like a retainer.
Restoring a smile and regaining confidence after tooth loss is possible through tooth replacement. Each method has unique benefits and caters to different needs, preferences, and oral health conditions. To find out which is best for you, ask our Woodland Hills periodontist during an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.periocafe.com or call Brighton Periodontal & Implant Dental Group at (818) 703-7733 for an appointment in our Woodland Hills office.
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