144 Missing Teeth – Best Option for Missing Teeth Replacement (1 of 5)
Fewer than half of all adults in the U.S. have all of their permanent teeth. When a patient gets older, they are at an increased risk for losing a tooth. Close to 20% of adults over the age of 65 are edentulous or do not have any of their natural teeth. Decay is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
Adults with missing teeth often feel embarrassed and self-conscious. Missing teeth can even create challenges in completing simple tasks like speaking and eating. There are fortunately highly effective tooth-replacement options available. Dental implants are the most popular and effective treatment option. Other solutions include implant-supported dentures, bridges, partial dentures, and complete dentures.
Dental Implants
Dentists often suggest patients use dental implants to replace their missing teeth. Many argue it is the best solution currently available. Dental implants actually fuse to the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. This secure base makes implants incredibly strong. Implants are also very aesthetically pleasing and function just like the natural teeth. The procedure involves the surgical placement of the implant post into the jawbone. This replaces the root of the missing tooth and gives the implant the ability to stimulate the jawbone. This helps prevent bone resorption. Implants can also be used support other types of tooth-replacement treatments including dentures, bridges, and crowns.
Implants are typically created from titanium, a material which is commonly used in other types of prosthetic devices. Following the placement of the implant and once the gums have healed, the prosthetic tooth is attached. Implants are an exceptional tooth-replacement option due to their function, security, and natural appearance.
Implant Crown and Bridges
In the past, removable dentures or bridges were the only solution for replacing missing molars. These teeth in the back of the mouth must be able to endure chewing forces, limiting the options. Additional treatment options which can be used missing molars are crowns, bridges, and dentures, which are all supported by an implant.
Implants are used as the foundation for implant crowns and bridges. When patients are missing a single tooth, an implant crown is a great solution. This is also a great option for patients with missing teeth located in the front of the mouth.
When a patient is missing multiple teeth, the dentist often suggest the use of an implant-supported bridge. This solution can be used for patients who are missing up to 12 teeth. Patients without any teeth can use implant-supported dentures or implant-supported bridges for a full mouth reconstruction.
Implant-Supported Removable Denture
Another tooth-replacement solution is an implant-supported removable denture. Removable dentures are similar to traditional dentures in that must be removed each night for cleaning. The dentures are secured to an implant, however, which offers the patient and great level of stability.
In some cases, a patient may choose to do nothing about their missing teeth. When patients are missing teeth located in the back of the mouth, this can be especially common as the missing tooth is not visible. It is quite expensive to replace missing teeth. In some cases, the cost prevents patients from seeking treatment. Treatment can also take a significant amount of time to complete. Some patients decide they don’t have the time. The failure to replace missing teeth can cause serious, long-term issues.
Follow up with a dentist to discuss tooth-replacement options for missing teeth. Many dentists also have financing options or can create a payment plan.