Replacing Missing Teeth
The importance of replacing missing teeth
Your oral health impacts your overall well-being. When teeth are missing, it can disrupt your bite, speech, and even your diet. Over time, this extra stress on your remaining teeth can lead to further damage, wear, and potential tooth loss. Additionally, jaw pain and headaches may develop due to changes in your bite. Beyond functional issues, tooth loss causes the jawbone to deteriorate; in fact, you can lose up to 25% of the supporting jawbone within the first year.
Dental implants provide a solution that not only restores your smile but also maintains the health and structure of your jaw. Unlike other options, implants function like natural teeth and help preserve your bone structure, appearance, and oral health.
Tooth Replacement Options
At All County Oral Surgery, we offer a variety of tooth replacement options to meet your unique needs, whether you're missing a single tooth or multiple teeth, or are dissatisfied with dentures. Here’s a look at your choices:
Dental Implants
Dental implants offer the most permanent and natural-feeling solution for tooth replacement. They act as a strong foundation for individual teeth or to secure dentures in place, maintaining jawbone health. Unlike traditional bridges, dental implants don’t compromise surrounding healthy teeth. With proper care, implants can last a lifetime, providing a comfortable and stable option for most patients.
Fixed Bridges
A fixed bridge replaces one or more missing teeth by anchoring a connected set of artificial teeth to the adjacent healthy teeth. The supporting teeth need to be modified to attach the bridge securely, which can impact their natural structure over time.
Removable Partial Dentures
Flipper: A temporary, affordable solution, consisting of a removable plastic tooth and retainer. While cost-effective, it may not be suitable for long-term use due to its fragility.
Metal Partial: A more durable option that includes a metal and plastic structure. It’s held in place with wire clips and can be removed and reinserted as needed.
Complete Dentures
For those missing all teeth in one or both jaws, complete dentures are the most common choice. While some adapt well to dentures, others may find them uncomfortable or challenging due to differences in jaw size and shape.
Why Choose Dental Implants Over Traditional Restorations?
Dental implants offer several advantages over more traditional tooth replacement methods:
Protect Surrounding Teeth: Unlike dental bridges, implants don’t require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth.
Comfort and Convenience: Implants remain securely in place without the need for nightly removal or the discomfort of slipping dentures.
Longevity and Stability: With proper care, dental implants are a long-lasting solution that maintains your oral health
Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most adults are suitable candidates for dental implants, including those who have lost one or more teeth or who are dissatisfied with their dentures. Factors like smoking, diabetes, and prior radiation treatment to the area may affect the success rate. A thorough evaluation, including X-rays, is necessary to ensure the jawbone can support the implants
Your Journey to a Restored Smile
At All County Oral Surgery, our expert team will guide you through every step of your tooth replacement journey, helping you choose the solution that’s best for your needs and lifestyle. Schedule a consultation today to explore your options for a healthier, more confident smile.
