Accident or trauma, poor oral health leading to tooth decay or gum disease, age factor, or simply blaming one’s genetics; several reasons can cause one to lose one or more teeth. Choosing to stay with missing teeth is common but not medically recommended, orthodontists highlight. Thankfully, there are a variety of tooth replacement options available apart from the widely known dental implants. These single or multi-tooth replacement treatment options are available at top-rated dental implants Los Angeles clinics. Let’s find out more about them:
Dental Implants
Dental implants generally take the lead when it comes to searching for options for tooth replacement. It is the best option for people seeking a permanent solution for their dental concerns. It is a surgical procedure that works in two stages. In the first step, a metal post is surgically implanted into the jawbone. Once it fuses with the bone, the artificial tooth or crown is screwed atop. It mimics the natural-looking teeth and functions just the same.
Clinics offering dental implants in Los Angeles assess each case closely. The primary consideration is evaluating the jawbone strength before they pick up their ideal candidate.
Dental Bridge
People with one or more missing teeth can have their dental gap ‘bridged’. This dental device comprises an artificial tooth or teeth in the middle. Using precision attachments or metal clasps the bridge is then attached to the permanent adjacent teeth. The dental bridge can be removable or fixed and is one of the most sought-after procedures for replacing premolars and molars.
The position of the missing tooth or teeth and the health of the adjacent teeth are the primary pointers that orthodontics look at.
Removable Dentures
The permanent and fixed features of dental implants and bridges can hold back many. People looking at a more flexible teeth replacement option often resort to removable dentures as the device can be taken out and put back in the mouth at will. The dentures are prosthetic porcelain teeth that are fixed to a plastic base. It is one of the most economical treatment options available for replacing missing teeth.
But removable dentures have their shade of negative. The dentures are made of material that wears out quickly. Therefore, it requires regular replacement. Also, as missing teeth cause a shift in the alignment of the jaw, wearing and removing dentures at intervals can exacerbate this issue, leading to discomfort and further dental problems.
Resin-Bonded Bridge
All the treatment approaches listed above are most suitable for premolars and molars. For people looking for tooth replacement solutions for their missing front teeth, resin-bonded bridges are the most widely recommended. The procedure involves preparing a resin-bonded look-alike of the natural teeth and attaching it to the abutment teeth before fusing it to the metal bands. It is primarily a single tooth replacement option and its success depends upon the health of the adjacent teeth.
Implant-Supported Bridge
As the name suggests, the implant-supported bridge is an amalgamation of dental implants and dental bridges. The treatment involves surgically placing a dental implant for every missing tooth. These implants hold the bridge device in position. In cases where placing an implant in each gap is not possible, a pontic-suspended bridge is prepared. It anchors between two implant-supported crowns. The treatment approach can be quite elaborate and comprehensive and will require a number of surgeries to reach the desired treatment results.
Which Option Is The Best?
When it comes to replacing a missing tooth, there’s a vast gamut of treatment options available. While Los Angeles dental implants have been the most sought-after, they might not be the best fit for every individual. Numerous factors like the number of missing teeth, their location, overall oral health, and the preference for a fixed or removable solution will help reach the most feasible approach. The recovery time for each treatment option is different. The cost factor also plays a crucial role when making the final choice.
Can I Do Without A Tooth Replacement?
According to estimates, close to 180 million Americans have at least one tooth missing. However, not everyone goes for a tooth replacement procedure. However, leading orthodontic surgeons highlight that staying without a tooth can have a detrimental effect. It is not just a cause of low self-esteem, but also affects overall health and well-being. Some of the key concern areas are:
- Distorted and asymmetrical smile
- Poor self-confidence
- Difficulty in speaking normally
- The inability to chew food properly leads to nutrition issues
- Shifting teeth and bite misalignment issues
- Increases stress on other teeth
- Increased risk of jaw pain or TMJ disorder
- Reduces bone health
Furthermore, if the primary cause of tooth loss is poor oral health, in all likelihood the condition will deteriorate and go on to affect overall health. Therefore, regular dental checkups are imperative to boost your overall health and well-being.
Final Thoughts
Missing teeth is not just a cosmetic concern. It affects how you eat, talk, and feel about yourself. Worse still, the damage can be progressive. Tooth replacement options offer restorative benefits. If you have missing teeth, a visit to a leading orthodontic clinic like the Personal Dental Office in Los Angeles can help you find the best treatment option to fill up the dental gap and overcome its grueling side effects.
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