When you lose a tooth, especially unexpectedly, it can often lead to worsening dental conditions. Other teeth are more likely to shift, leading to additional malocclusion problems. Tooth loss can also lead to jaw disorders and facial sagging over time. If you are missing teeth, you may be considering your replacement options.
Patients with missing teeth in Virginia Beach, VA, have a few different tooth replacement options available. After examining your bite, our dentists can determine which treatment is best for your oral health and cosmetic goals. We hope the following information will help you explore your options for replacement teeth to maintain the best oral health.
How to Replace Missing Teeth in Virginia Beach, VA
When deciding on treatment, there are a few different factors your dentist will consider. The main factor is going to be how many teeth you’re missing and where you’re missing them. For example, you may not need a full denture if you’re only missing one tooth. And if you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, a traditional bridge may not be the best option.
Another factor to consider is your oral health. Dental implants are often the most recommended treatment option. However, if you have gum disease or bone density loss, you may not be eligible for implants.
Before starting any treatment, your dentist will do a thorough examination. The exam may include taking X-Rays, and a consult with you to determine which treatment is best. Some of the most common replacement options for missing teeth include dental implants, bridges, and dentures.
Dental Implants
Dental implants tend to offer the most restorative benefits for most patients with missing teeth. The implant posts help by mimicking the natural root structure of your tooth. This provides additional jaw strength and bite support. Single dental implants can help restore your bite after losing one tooth.
If you’re missing multiple teeth, your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge or an implant-secured denture. However, undergoing a dental procedure that involves replacing a single tooth with an implant can be time-consuming. The whole dental implant process can take months and include a surgical procedure to complete.
Traditional Dental Bridges
If dental implants aren’t an option, a traditional dental bridge could help. Bridges use dental crowns placed on neighboring teeth to support the pontics (fake teeth). Because of the structure of a traditional bridge, we recommend them for patients who are missing one or just a few teeth. If you’re missing multiple teeth in a row, the pressure on the dental crowns could cause damage to your teeth when you bite.
Dentures and Partial Dentures
Although dentures and partials offer the least amount of stability and strength, they are extremely beneficial for many patients. However, dentures and partials are often easier to keep clean because they are removable. Patients who suffer from low mobility, for example, may struggle to brush and floss their teeth properly. But with a full-arch denture or partial denture, they can remove their restoration to clean it.
At Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we believe that every patient deserves a strong and stable bite. We offer a few different replacement options to help restore your smile after tooth loss. Call us today at 757-656-6368 to schedule a consultation and see which option could be right for you.