Having a tooth knocked out in an accident or having it extracted due to a dental disease is difficult enough without the added embarrassment of a gap in your smile. Missing teeth can also cause additional oral health problems because the remaining teeth naturally shift towards the open spot. This can lead to problems with proper alignment and the inability to bite normally. Replacing the missing teeth as soon as possible is essential for your oral health.
Most Common Teeth Replacement Options
Dentures are one of the most common dental options for missing teeth. They are most appropriate when you are missing all of your teeth or several consecutive teeth on the same arch. Our dental laboratory attaches the replacement teeth to wires, which in turn is attached to a plastic plate. Although dentures restore your mouth to full functionality, you may need to avoid sticky or hard food so you don’t break them. You should wear dentures during all waking hours except when you remove them for cleaning.
Many patients who are missing several or all of their teeth prefer the look and convenience of dental implants. They remain in your mouth permanently and match the color of any remaining teeth that you have. To start the dental implant procedure, Dr. Bhavin Changela first places titanium rods in your jawbone called abutments. These act as the roots for your new teeth. After allowing up to several months for your jaw and gums to heal, your dentist then attaches the replacement teeth to the abutments to give you a more natural smile.
A dental bridge is a good single tooth replacement option or when you are missing two or three consecutive teeth. Dr. Bhavin Changela places metal brackets on the back of the two closest surrounding teeth to provide support for the new dental bridge. The next step is to place a dental adhesive on the brackets before placing the replacement tooth in the open spot. Dental bridges do not create new roots, but having the new tooth in position helps to prevent shifting by the other teeth.
Any staff member at dental care of chino hills would be happy to answer additional questions about tooth replacement options.