Replacing Missing Teeth
Stuart, FL
Your teeth are an important feature of your mouth, performing a variety of essential tasks every single day. When you suffer tooth loss, all of the functions of your mouth are affected, as is your quality of life. Even if you only lose one tooth, it can still have a significant impact. Tooth loss can happen for many reasons including gum disease, facial trauma, severe tooth decay, bruxism, and more. At Colin M. McKinney, DMD, we can help to restore the functions of your missing teeth and your quality of life by replacing your missing teeth.
What Happens When I Lose My Teeth?
When you lose your teeth, several things begin to happen:
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It becomes more difficult to bite and chew food.
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When you cannot properly chew, your digestion and overall nutrition suffer.
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You may develop a lisp. Others may have a harder time understanding you.
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Your smile is affected. With gaps in your smile, your confidence can suffer.
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You are at greater risk for gum disease.
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Additional stress is put on your healthy teeth, which increases your risk of tooth damage.
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Your jaw begins to change shape. Tooth loss causes bone loss. Over time, the jaw changes shape, altering your bite. Any healthy teeth shift out of natural alignment. |
Porcelain Bridge
A bridge is a traditional treatment for replacing one to three missing teeth. The most common type of bridge is a fixed bridge, which is a single unit that consists of the replacement tooth and two dental crowns. The crowns sit one on each side of the replacement tooth, or teeth, and are designed to secure the bridge into place on your adjacent healthy teeth. Porcelain is a popular material because of its ability to perfectly match the color of your natural teeth.
Dentures
Dentures are another traditional replacement option. They are removable prosthetic teeth that can be used to replace sections of teeth, called partial dentures, or an entire arch of teeth, called full or complete dentures. Dentures consist of an acrylic base that holds acrylic resin teeth. The base is made to sit directly on your gums. Both partial and full dentures are similar in design, however partial dentures also have metal clasps that attach to your healthy teeth to help anchor the restoration in place.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are a newer option for replacing missing teeth. Modern implants are the result of an accidental discovery in the 1950’s. This treatment uses small titanium posts, which are surgically implanted directly into your jawbone. The posts are then integrated into your jaw as you heal. This is the result of osseointegration or the fusion of your bone to the posts. The posts become strong, stable roots that are then used to support your replacement teeth, typically ceramic crowns.
Dental implants are a very versatile treatment. They can be used in some different situations, whether you are missing just one tooth or you are missing a whole arch. They also offer several significant benefits including the unique benefit of being able to stimulate your jawbone just like your natural teeth. Implants are the only option available that stop, and prevent, bone loss in your jaw.
No matter if you are missing one tooth or many teeth, it is important that you have them replaced as soon as possible. For more information, and to discuss your options, call Colin M. McKinney, DMD today at (772) 266-2223.
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