Many people will lose a tooth over the course of their life, whether it is from gum disease, tooth decay, trauma, or a broken tooth.
But once the tooth has gone, do you need to replace it? In this month’s blog we look at the reasons you may want to consider replacing your missing tooth and what may happen if you do not.
What problems can having a missing tooth cause?
Difficulty eating
Having missing teeth can cause problems breaking down food, as it will impact the way the rest of your teeth bite together. This can put a strain on the remainder of your teeth and may restrict you from eating certain types of food. Food can also get stuck in the gap where your tooth once was. This increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Irritation and sore gums
You may notice that the gum where the tooth is missing becomes easily irritated and sore. This also increases the risk of gum disease.
Appearance
Missing teeth can change the way your facial features look, causing your muscles to sag or appear sunken. Gaps in your smile can also impact your self-esteem and may make you feel less confident.
Communication
Depending on which teeth are missing, you may struggle to pronounce certain words or develop a lisp. This can impact your self-confidence and limit your social interactions.
Bone loss
When a tooth is missing, the natural roots are no longer in the jawbone. This leaves a space and causes the jawbone to deteriorate over time, causing significant alterations in the appearance and functionality of your jaw.
What treatment options are available to replace a missing tooth?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you may wish to replace the missing tooth or teeth. There are several ways of doing this including:
Dentures
Dentures are also known as false teeth and can be full or partial, depending on how many teeth are missing. Dentures are removable dental appliances that can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. They can be made with an acrylic or chrome base and composite teeth. The colour of the teeth will be matched so they blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.
Bridges
Bridges are more suitable if you are only missing one or two teeth. A bridge fills the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap and false teeth are used to fill the gap joining the crowns together. As with crowns, you have a choice of materials for bridges. Your dentist can help you decide which to use, based on the location of the missing tooth (or teeth), its function, aesthetic considerations, and cost.
Dental Implants
A dental implant consists mainly of two parts, the ‘screw or post’ acting as the root of the tooth, and the crown, bridge or denture, depending on the number of teeth to be replaced. The implant ‘post’ is made of titanium which osseointegrates to the surrounding bone. The restoration is then attached to the post.
If you are concerned about your missing tooth or teeth and would like further guidance, make an appointment with your dentist at Ringmer Dental. They can inspect the area, advise whether you need to replace the missing tooth, and find the best option for you. Call Ringmer Dental today on 01273 813898 and book your appointment.