Missing teeth can be detrimental to your health as well as the appearance of your smile. If even one tooth is missing, your bite can lose strength, and your mouth is at a higher risk of developing disease and other problems. For patients with missing teeth in Davidsonville, MD, there are a range of options available to help. After examining your mouth, your dentist can help create a treatment plan to restore your bite and smile after losing a tooth.
The Effects and Treatment of Missing Teeth in Davidsonville, MD
Although the immediate change in your smile is the most noticeable effect of a missing tooth, there are several other problems that could develop. Patients who are missing teeth could develop symptoms such as:
- Gum disease
- Loss of bone
- Shifting or loss of remaining teeth
- Facial regression
- Inflammation
- Loss of bite strength
The sooner you find a replacement for missing teeth, the better your odds are at preventing additional dental concerns. There are plenty of options for treatment available, and your dentist can help you determine which is best for you.
Dental Implants
For patients who are only missing one tooth, a dental implant is likely to be recommended. Dental implants are a top choice among dentists because they offer additional bone retention and jaw support. The implant is surgically placed into your jaw, mimicking the root system of a natural tooth. Your dentist then restores the implant with a crown or other restorative option to finish treatment. Dental implants can help improve the look of your smile and the power of your bite after losing a tooth.
Dental Bridges
If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, a dental bridge may be able to help. There are two kinds of dental bridges: traditional and implant-supported. Implant-supported bridges use the help of dental implants on either side to support your bridge. A traditional bridge, on the other hand, uses the neighboring teeth (treated with dental crowns for added strength) to secure it in place. Both options can be beneficial, and your dentist can determine which would be the best option for you after examining your mouth.
Dentures
Dentures are another common option for missing teeth treatment. They are removable oral appliances that require patients to apply an adhesive every day to secure the denture in their mouth. However, advancements in implant technology allow some patients to receive implant-secured dentures. These dentures are still removable but provide additional support and do not need adhesives to secure them. Dentures are typically recommended for patients who have lost an entire arc of teeth.
If you’re missing teeth in your mouth, it’s more than just your smile line that’s affected. At Wooddell & Passaro, we have a variety of treatment options to help restore your smile and strengthen your bite. Call us today at (410) 956-5555 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our treatment options for missing teeth.