Missing teeth cause havoc to anyone’s dental health. Teeth shift out of position, the jaw bone deteriorates, and patients lose dental function. On top of that, a smile that is missing teeth is considered by many to be unattractive.
With the latest advancements in dental care, patients now have several options for teeth replacements. From bridges to dental implants, we’ll take a look at your choices and help you decide a replacement that’s perfect for you.
Bridges replace one or two missing teeth and close gaps using adjacent teeth as anchors for a porcelain prosthetic. Bridges are secured by crowns placed over nearby healthy teeth that have been prepared to receive and support the new prosthetic. Patients generally choose this option because it avoids any need for surgical intervention.
Full and partial dentures are prosthetic mouthpieces that replace up to a row of teeth. A denture is crafted using acrylic for the gums and either porcelain or acrylic for teeth. Dentures rest over gums and use existing teeth as stabilizers to provide the strength necessary for chewing and speaking. Dental adhesive is often used to provide greater security for prosthetics.
Dental implants are comprehensive replacements for teeth, able to address the problem of missing roots of teeth as well. Implant posts placed directly into the space serve as the new teeth roots. Restorations are affixed to this dental implant for a permanent improvement of the smile.
What is the Actual Cost of Replacing a Missing Tooth?
Many believe they save money on their restorations by going with the most affordable options available, but in many instances the most these have hidden costs to oral health that become apparent down the road. While patients don’t often need the most expensive prosthetic, opting for a reliable replacement ensures your smile is well taken care of throughout your lifetime.
Preserving jaw health not only improves jaw strength but also helps maintain a youthful appearance. A jaw bone supported by restorations such as dental implants receives the support necessary to maintain a beautiful, functioning smile even as it ages.
Find Out More
Your smile is important for both its function and appearance. Take care of your smile by calling our practice and scheduling a discussion with Dr. Jeffrey Bauer to determine a restoration option that’s best for you. Bauer Dental Associates provides restorations in Bluffton to adults and individuals from Okatie and other cities across Beaufort County