Replacing Missing Teeth: 3 Popular Procedures

Replacing missing teeth is essential to good oral health. Missing a tooth or two may look like a non-issue, but the reality is that it may affect your life negatively. A missing tooth may alter your appearance, lower your confidence, and it can also affect your dental health.

It can make it difficult for you to perform simple tasks such as eating and talking. For some people, missing teeth changes their look, making them appear older than they actually are. The good news, however, is that missing teeth can be replaced.

For anyone looking to replace their missing tooth, there are certain procedures that might be of help. It is advisable that you seek the professional help of a dentist, who will advise on which procedure suits you best. He/she will recommend a tooth replacement procedure based on your unique dental needs.

Here are some common tooth replacement procedures that are commonly available:

1. Dental Implants

A dental implant is a procedure that involves implanting an artificial root into your jawbone. After inserting the implant, the dentist will add a bridge, dentures, or a crown onto the fixture to give you a new tooth/teeth.

One of the benefits of getting a dental implant is that it is durable and biocompatible. This means that your gum tissue will grow into the implant and bond with it. This also makes your implant stronger. Another advantage of dental implants is that they prevent bone loss since the implant mimics your natural teeth root.

2. Bridging

Bridging is also another way to replace missing teeth. A bridge is used to fill the space left by a missing tooth, and it helps you maintain the function of your other teeth. Bridging also helps you restore your bite, smile, and natural face shape. After inserting the bridge, the dentist will fix a replacement tooth onto it.

Just as is the case with dental implants, your dentist will assess whether you are a good candidate for the procedure beforehand. He/she can also help you choose a suitable material for the bridges that matches your natural teeth.

3. Removable Dentures

When you lose many teeth, dentures may be a suitable solution for you. Dentures are dental appliances which are designed to mimic actual teeth. They can be full or partial depending on the extent of your tooth loss.

The benefit of removable dentures is that they offer the wearer flexibility. You may choose when or not to wear your denture depending on your preferences. Additionally, dentures are designed to look like real teeth. You do not have to feel self-conscious especially when you are around people.

Depending on the extent of your tooth loss, these top three tooth replacement procedures may come in handy. All you have to do is consult with your dentist to find out if you are a perfect candidate for any of them. Your dentist will also advise you on how to maintain your replacement teeth.

Getting back your teeth functionality and replacing missing teeth might be as easy as getting one of these procedures done.

Call (425) 249-9186 to schedule an appointment with Bellevue Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry in our Bellevue dental office.

Dr. Zan Xu