Missing Teeth Prognosis
If you are missing teeth, not only can it be unsightly and cause you to lose self-confidence, it can impact your overall oral health. All your teeth are designed to work together when you talk, chew and even smile. If one or several are missing, you may experience bone loss and other teeth may become loose. Fortunately, there are options to replace missing teeth and your Springfield dentist can easily fix the problem.
What Can Be Done to Replace Missing Teeth?
Here are the methods to fix this emergency dental situation. The method selected depends on your overall oral health and personal choice.
Implants. This is an excellent choice for many people when it comes to replacing a tooth. Implants are made of titanium and are anchored in the jaw with screws. They are very strong and can last for many years. However, it does require surgery and there has to be enough bone in the jaw to ensure stability.
- Fixed Bridges: Your Springfield dentist will create a replacement tooth that is remains in place by being attached to the adjoining teeth. It can only be removed by the dentist and it does require multiple visits to the office.
- Removable Bridges: These are made from the same materials as a fixed bridge, but they are not attached to the adjoining teeth. It can be removed by you for cleaning, etc.
- Removable Partial Dentures: These are structures were replacement teeth are attached to a plastic base that looks like the gums. They normally have plastic prongs that are affixed to the adjoining teeth.
- Full Dentures: If you have many missing teeth and poor overall oral health, your best option may be a full denture. These resemble removable partial dentures in structure and can also be taken out at a person’s convenience.