Why Replace Missing Teeth?
If you are searching for a “dentist for missing teeth near me”, then you’re not alone! In this article, we will talk about why it’s important to replace missing teeth, and how your trusted dentist can help you.
Is missing teeth common?
Having missing teeth can be pretty common. In fact, there are around 120 million Americans who are missing at least one tooth, and this number is expected to increase. [1]
There can be different causes of missing teeth. To some, their tooth loss can be caused by injury. For others, it can be a result of not properly taking care of your mouth which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If you have missing teeth, there are plenty of reasons why you should visit your dentist and discuss your tooth replacement options.
The importance of restoring tooth loss
It’s important to restore missing teeth not only for aesthetic reasons but also for functionality. When you address tooth loss right away, you’re able to avoid overusing and damaging the surrounding healthy teeth. In addition, the earlier you replace missing teeth, the better chances you have of avoiding bone loss.
Here are some problems you may encounter when you don’t replace missing teeth right away:
- Having missing teeth can make you feel self-conscious about your smile
- It can affect your self-confidence
- It can cause your gums to recede
- It can result in speech problems
- It can cause nearby healthy teeth to shift into the gap
- Tooth loss can limit your food choices because it can make chewing difficult
- It may affect your facial features over the years
- Losing teeth can lead to bone loss
Tooth replacement options
Thankfully, there are many treatment options that you can choose so you can avoid the complications of having missing teeth. The best way to start is to book a consultation with your dentist. You can work with your doctor to evaluate which tooth replacement option is right for you.
Here are the most common procedures that your dentist might recommend:
Dentures
Dentures can be partial or full dentures depending on how many teeth need to be replaced. They are also removable, and your dentist may need to do several adjustments over time to get the proper fit. Removable dentures are often made of plastic and are clipped onto the remaining teeth.
Apart from traditional removable dentures, there are implant-supported dentures where the doctor makes use of two or more implant posts to keep your dentures from slipping out. The implant-supported dentures are typically used for people who have lost multiple teeth.
Fixed dental bridges
A bridge can help replace a missing tooth by using crowns on either side of the empty space to support the false tooth or teeth. The nearby teeth on each side of the gap act as a bridge to keep the false tooth or teeth in place for it to fill the gap. There are also implant-supported bridges where instead of using crowns, your dentist will use implant posts that are attached to your jaw to keep the teeth stable.
Dental implants
Dental implant placement is the best way to replace missing teeth. It is also the most durable and most preferred option for dentists and patients. Compared with dentures, dental implants feel more like natural teeth. They are also fixed to your jawbone making them stable and permanent. Because they are just like natural teeth, you can clean them more easily. Dental implants can last a lifetime if properly cared for. So, if you are looking for a long-term solution to your missing teeth, a dental implant is the one for you.
At Sage Dental and Spa, we offer many tooth replacement procedures that you can choose from, including dental implants. Depending on your need, we do single tooth or multiple teeth replacement, full teeth replacement, and All-on-6 implants. Call our office today to book your appointment!
Why Choose Sage Dental and Spa to replace missing tooth?
We have a proven track record. Our dental office, headed by Dr. Avi Israeli, has been serving clients for over 16 years.
We are trusted by our patients. With our years of service, we have treated thousands of patients from Wall Township, Neptune City, Spring Lake, Sea Girt, Manasquan, Belmar, and Bradley Beach. Even patients from outside the state choose to visit Sage Dental and Spa for their dental needs!
We value your hard-earned money. Our dental implants cost lower compared with other dental offices, but without compromising quality!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most common missing tooth?
The wisdom tooth, upper lateral incisors, or the secondary premolars are the most common missing tooth.
Can I prevent tooth loss?
This depends since there are different causes of tooth loss. Losing teeth due to accidents or injuries cannot be prevented. But, if you are active in sports, you can talk with your dentist about how you can protect your teeth using a mouthguard.
Since bad dental hygiene can lead to gum disease and cavities, brushing and flossing your teeth regularly can also help you preserve your natural teeth longer. If you have kids, teach them to observe excellent oral hygiene while still young. Lastly, visiting your dentist every six months will also help you keep your dental health in check.
Which treatment is right for me?
Choosing the right procedure can depend on your medical and dental history, your mouth’s physical condition such as the amount of bone you have, and whether you need partial or full teeth replacement. It can also depend on your lifestyle, the favorite foods you eat, or your personality. For example, if you like to sing or talk a lot, removable dentures might not work best for you because they might slip out of your mouth.
Your dentist can recommend tooth replacement options after assessing all these factors.
How much do tooth replacement options cost?
The cost will depend on what type of treatment you choose to have. Each treatment also has its pros and cons that you need to factor in when thinking about how much it would cost you in the long run.
Implants can cost a few thousand dollars more compared to other types of treatment, but they behave more like natural teeth and can last for a longer time. So, you eventually get more out of what you paid for. Dentures and bridges are effective treatments that cost less than implants, but they may not last as long.
You can also check with your insurance provider if they can shoulder some of the cost, or ask your dental service if they have financing options available for you.
Your dentist for missing teeth in Wall Township!
If you live in Wall Township, NJ, or in the surrounding area, we invite you to call our office for a consultation. Our dentist, Dr. Avi Israeli, will be happy to evaluate which tooth replacement procedure will be the best for you.