A smile makeover can restore your smile and the lost function of missing teeth. Having one or more of your teeth falling out affects the appearance of your smile, and it also limits your ability to chew foods and speak clearly.
Missing teeth also make you more vulnerable to issues like tooth decay since teeth often move out of their normal position when a tooth is missing. It is the body's attempt to close the space created by a missing tooth. Fortunately, dentists have many ways to replace missing teeth during a smile makeover. Factors like the patient's medical history, habits, budget and the location of the tooth often determine which options the dentist recommends.
Here are some of the popular ways a dentist might decide to go about replacing missing teeth:
Implants are highly recommended when it comes to replacing missing teeth. Theses oral restorations go right into the patient's jaw and they serve as anchors for oral restorations like dentures, bridges and crowns.
The installation of implants is a surgical procedure, so the patient needs to be healthy enough to recover in order to be a good candidate for the procedure. People with weak immune systems or chronic disorders like diabetes might have to go with some of the other missing-teeth replacement options. Habits like smoking and regular alcohol consumption also slow down a person's ability to heal.
Implants require up to six months after their installation to fuse with surrounding tissues. This holds the implant in place and allows it to keep the patient's jawbone stimulated. Implants are the only way to replace a missing tooth that addresses the bone tissue loss that takes place after a tooth falls out.
Bridges are another way to replace missing teeth. They are typically used when the patient has multiple missing teeth located right next to each other. Bridges bridge the gap created by missing teeth and they are usually fastened to the two teeth on both sides of the gap. These teeth are often covered with crowns to provide extra stability for the bridge. A set of artificial teeth is connected to these anchors and this restores the appearance and function of the patient's lost teeth.
The installation of bridges does not require any surgery so most people are eligible for these restorations. It typically involves the patient making two trips to the dentist.
Looking for an affordable way to replace missing teeth? Dentures are the way to go. These oral prosthetics consist of a framework that is held in place via suction, with artificial teeth that are attached to it.
Dentures restore the function and appearance of lost teeth, and they are a great option for people who have lost most of their teeth. There are also partial denture sets for people who are only missing a few teeth.
Call our Killeen clinic if you are missing some of your teeth. Our dentist will evaluate you and determine which options may work best for you.
Request an appointment here: https://www.texasstarsmiles.com or call Texas Star Smiles & Fastbraces at (254) 237-1342 for an appointment in our Killeen office.
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