When you have a missing tooth, this could mean embarrassment due to an exposed gap, and also problems for your overall oral health. Which is why your Astoria, NY, dentist has options to address minor tooth loss and restore function, beauty, and health to your smile again. In today’s blog, we’re looking at dental bridges and dental implants.
The Causes and Dangers of Missing Teeth
Losing a tooth causes a gap to form in your smile, one that could lead to dental misalignment, a complication that changes the appearance of your smile and increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In addition, your lost teeth could upset your bite’s overall balance, which in turn makes the chances of TMJ disorder and bruxism (teeth grinding) more likely. Over time, the issue could grow more severe. When you lose your tooth roots, the body stops sending key doses of certain nutrients to that portion of the jawbone. Without them, the bone tissue deteriorates and breaks down. This means further tooth loss and over time, an aged appearance. Not to mention trouble eating and speaking clearly! Addressing your missing tooth quickly is recommended.
Dental Bridges
For minor tooth loss, we could place a dental bridge. This addresses between one and three missing teeth in a row. We start by removing structure from the teeth on each side of the gap and using a local anesthetic to ensure you’re comfortable. Next, we take detailed digital images and impressions of these teeth, which we use in the design and fabrication process. A bridge contains new teeth with dental crowns attached to either end. The prosthetic is crafted from strong and lifelike materials, such as ceramic, which we shade to blend with your smile. When the bridge is ready, we attach the crowns to the abutment teeth, securing your new tooth for between 10 and 15 years on average.
Dental Implants
We also have a more stable and longer-lasting option known as a dental implant. This involves inserting a biocompatible titanium post into the jawbone, which bonds with the structure like a new root. We next attach a restoration with an abutment, so you enjoy a new tooth that looks and functions like a natural one. Not only can we address a single lost tooth, we could also secure a bridge or denture that is ready to last for decades to come and prevent the loss of jawbone mass and density, preserving your youthful features.
Do You Have Questions About Prosthetic Treatment?
Don’t live with the complications of missing teeth. To learn more about our options to replace lost teeth, then schedule a consultation by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
