Replacement Options for a Missing Tooth

Most people have a full set of teeth by the time they become an adult. Certain factors such as tooth decay, gum disease, age and trauma can lead to missing teeth. For those suffering from the loss of one or more teeth, Platinum Dental Care offers a variety of solutions to all patients. Dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures are all treatment options that may be right for you. These solutions provide patients with the opportunity to fill their gaps and eliminate the health issues that can occur from missing teeth.
Causes of Missing Teeth
Tooth decay, gum disease, age and trauma are the most common causes of missing teeth. Inherited disorders, improper hygiene, and other factors can cause dental issues that impact the health of your teeth. These dental issues can cause teeth to weaken or crack and eventually fall out over time.
Impact of Having Missing Teeth
Missing teeth can have a significant impact on how your mouth functions, primarily when speaking and eating. When teeth are missing, forming words and perfecting your speech can be challenging. Similarly, you may struggle to eat properly, as grinding and breaking down your food with your teeth becomes difficult. Not replacing missing teeth can lead to other teeth shifting, bone loss, and could possibly result in additional tooth loss.
Dental Replacements Options for Missing Teeth
Dental Implants
Dental implants are metal posts that are surgically set into the jawbone. These embedded structures are used as a supporting element for which a replacement tooth is attached which is called an “implant crown”. A patients’ jawbone must adequately heal before a Dentist can mount a replacement tooth. Healing can take several weeks, but at your next appointment, the false tooth will be secured in place. The results are incredible, offering the same appeal, durability, and function like natural teeth.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are also known as caps. A crown is a hollow artificial tooth that is placed over a tooth to serve as a protective shell. Unlike dental implants, which are inserted into the jaw bone, dental crowns are placed over existing, yet severely, damaged teeth. The purpose of this replacement option is to improve the structure, appearance, and function of damaged teeth.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are comprised of two teeth that bridge the gap or space formed by one or more missing teeth. The two abutment or “bookend” teeth get crowns. They are used as supporting structures for the replacement teeth in between. With dental bridges, you can replace your missing teeth for a fully functional mouth.
Dentures
Dentures are removable dental appliances that are comprised of replacement teeth and artificial gums which are available as partial or complete dentures. You receive partial dentures when only a few teeth are missing, while complete dentures are better suited when you have very few or no natural teeth.
Platinum Dental Care Offers Dental Replacement Options You Need
Platinum Dental Care provides a range of replacement options for missing teeth. For many years, we have been helping our patients enhance their smiles. If you want more information on our replacement options for missing teeth, please contact our office at 416-783-8686 and rebuild your smile with us!