More often than not, it's a good idea to replace missing teeth as soon as you can to keep your mouth healthy and prevent the further loss of tooth structure in your smile. Here, our Camrose dentists provide you with a variety of options for replacing your missing teeth. You and your dentist can work together to determine what option is suitable for you.
Do I need to replace my missing teeth?
When teeth are missing, they may cause a variety of health issues if they aren't promptly replaced. Because the remaining teeth may shift out of their proper positions, difficulty chewing, wear and tear on surrounding teeth and the misalignment of the bite are all quite possible.
Conditions like facial collapse may occur. This is when the jaw bone in the area where teeth are missing starts to deteriorate, eventually leading to the loss of function in the face.
Replacement Options for Missing Teeth
When you come into our Camrose dental office, your dentist will go over the following tooth replacement options with you and assist you in selecting the one that best meets your needs and fits within your financial budget.
Dentures
Dentures are removable replacement teeth. The procedure of taking dentures out of your mouth and placing them in may take some getting used to and the results won't ever be the same as having natural teeth in your mouth. However, modern dentures can still be natural-looking, comfortable and functional. They are also often the least expensive options for replacing missing teeth in many instances.
Depending on your requirements, you can choose between two different types of dentures. Full dentures are designed to replace all of the teeth in either the upper or lower jaw. Partial dentures can be used to replace a single missing tooth or a group of teeth in a row. Based on the impressions taken of your mouth, your dentures will be made specifically for you.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are fixed tooth replacements that are attached to the teeth or dental implants on either side of a gap where a tooth is missing. Dental bridges are non-removable, resulting in secure and comfortable fits for the patients. After its installation, your dental bridge will last for many years before it needs replacing.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are small titanium posts that act as artificial tooth roots and are surgically implanted into the jawbone to restore tooth function. A dental crown is placed on top of the tooth to complete the restoration.
The dental implant and crown combination has the appearance, feel, and function of a natural tooth in almost every way except for colour. While implants tend to be more expensive and invasive than crowns or bridges, many people find that the natural look and feel they provide are worth the investment.