Replacement of Missing teeth

March 13, 2024

Many people underestimate the importance of replacing a missing tooth,but have you considered the impact this could have on your overall health?

If a missing tooth is not replaced, it can lead to several issues, such as:

The absence of a tooth may cause the opposing tooth to over erupt and neighboring teeth to drift sideways
Over-eruption and mal-alignment can also increase the risk of developing cavities on the affected and neighboring teeth.
This mal-alignment can result in malocclusion, leading to joint pain or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
TMJ disorder can cause neck and shoulder pain, significantly affecting daily life. Therefore , it is crucial to address the issue of missing teeth promptly.
Additionally , the aesthetic impact can be significant, particularly in the front and mid areas of the mouth.
Chewing may become more challenging, especially without the support of the back teeth
Furthermore, the absence of a tooth can lead to weakening or loss of adjacent teeth.
Chewing on the side opposite to the missing teeth leads to its early wear and tear.

What are the available options for replacement?

Removable dentures, such as partial dentures for one or a few missing teeth, and complete dentures for replacing a full set of teeth, are among the options for tooth replacement.
Dental bridges: A traditional bridge involves creating a crown for the teeth on either side of the missing teeth, with a pontic ( false tooth) in between. This is a fixed solution that is cemented into place. Dental bridges may necessitate sacrificing healthy teeth and , if necessary, may require intentional RCT during the procedure.
Dental implant is a surgical component that interfaces with the jaw bone to support a dental prosthesis such as crown, bridge and denture. This treatment demands time due to its extensive procedure and is associated with higher costs but is definitely the best permanent long term solution.

Improved oral health: by filling in the gaps left by missing teeth, you can prevent over-eruption, drifting and weakening of the surrounding teeth. This can also prevent conditions like gum disease and tooth decay
Enhanced aesthetics: missing teeth can affect the appearance of your smile, causing self consciousness and impacting your self esteem. Replacing missing teeth can restore a natural and appealing smile
Restored function: replacing missing teeth can improve your ability to eat, speak and chew properly , allowing you to enjoy a wider variety of foods and maintain proper nutrition
Preservation of bone and facial structure: without the stimulation provided by the roots of natural teeth, the jaw bone can start to deteriorate over time. Dental implants, in particular, can help prevent this bone loss and maintain the shape of the face.
Long-term durability: depending on the chosen replacement option, properly cared-for dental restorations can last for many years, providing a long term solution for missing teeth.