Losing a tooth can feel overwhelming, especially if it happens unexpectedly. Beyond affecting how your smile looks, missing teeth can lead to bigger dental issues over time. For instance, the surrounding teeth might shift, causing bite problems and uneven wear.
Over time, gaps in your smile can lead to jaw discomfort, bone loss, or even changes in your facial shape. If you’re facing tooth loss, it’s important to explore the options available for restoring your smile and keeping your mouth healthy.
At Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we offer a range of solutions for replacing missing teeth in Virginia Beach, VA. After a careful exam, our dentists will help you find the best option for your needs and goals. Here’s a look at the most common ways to replace missing teeth and what to consider when choosing the right treatment.
What to Consider When Replacing Missing Teeth
Choosing the best option depends on several factors. First, your dentist will consider how many teeth you’ve lost and where the gaps are. For example, losing one tooth might only require a single implant, while losing several teeth in a row may need a bridge or partial denture. Full dentures are typically suggested when all teeth in an arch are missing.
Another important factor is the health of your mouth. Dental implants are often the top choice because they offer long-lasting benefits. However, not everyone is a candidate for implants. If you have gum disease or significant bone loss, you might need additional treatments like bone grafting before implants.
Your dentist will also discuss your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences to make sure the option you choose fits your needs.
Options for Replacing Missing Teeth
You have three main options for replacing missing teeth: dental implants, bridges, and dentures. Each has its own benefits, so it’s important to understand how they work.
1. Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace missing teeth. These small titanium posts act like the roots of natural teeth, anchoring securely into the jawbone. An artificial tooth, such as a crown, is then attached to the implant. This solution looks and feels very similar to your natural teeth and can last for many years with proper care.
For patients missing multiple teeth, options like implant-supported bridges or implant-secured dentures might be better. These provide more stability than traditional dentures and help maintain the health of your jawbone. While the implant process takes several months and involves surgery, the results are long-lasting and often worth the time.
2. Traditional Dental Bridges
If implants aren’t right for you, a dental bridge might be a good choice. A bridge uses crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap to hold artificial teeth in place. Bridges are ideal for replacing one or a few missing teeth in a row. They don’t require surgery and are quicker to complete than implants.
However, bridges rely on the strength of the surrounding teeth. Over time, this added pressure could weaken those teeth. Because of this, bridges are best for patients with strong, healthy neighboring teeth.
3. Dentures and Partial Dentures
Dentures are a tried-and-true option for patients who are missing many or all their teeth. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures fill in gaps when some natural teeth remain. These removable appliances are custom-made to fit your mouth and restore your ability to eat and speak.
Although dentures don’t offer the same stability as implants, they are easy to clean and maintain. They’re also a good choice for patients with limited mobility or those who want a more budget-friendly option. Implant-secured dentures, or All-on-Four, are another option for combining the affordability of dentures with the stability of implants.
Taking the First Step Toward a Restored Smile
Replacing missing teeth is about more than just appearance, it’s about protecting your oral health for the future. Whether you need a single implant, a bridge, or a full set of dentures, our team is here to guide you through the process.
At Coastal Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry, we help every patient achieve a smile they can feel confident about. Call us today at 757-656-6368 to schedule a consultation. Together, we’ll find the best way to restore your smile and keep your teeth healthy for years to come.