A missing tooth can make eating more difficult. Food can get stuck in the gap left behind by the missing tooth. Chewing may be less effective, meaning that you have to spend more time making sure each bite is properly softened. Depending on the location of the missing tooth in your mouth, it may also make speech more difficult.
Over time, a missing tooth can cause changes in the mouth. The lack of stimulation from the roots of the tooth can lead to bone loss in the jaw. The other teeth may start to shift inward to close the gap. The tooth opposite the one that is missing may also start to shift downward or upward because the missing tooth is no longer exerting force on it when the jaws come together. All of this can change your bite and potentially lead to further tooth decay and other dental problems.
There are several dental restorations available to replace one or more missing teeth. Each returns your mouth to its original appearance and function. Some can help prevent the changes that occur in your mouth as a result of missing teeth.
A partial denture is a removable restoration. This means that you can take it out of your mouth for cleaning. Partial dentures consist of a metal framework partially covered by a plastic base with the replacement teeth fixed in it. The plastic base is the same color as your gums, and the replacement teeth are made to blend in with the natural ones. Therefore, it should be very difficult, if not impossible, for other people to tell that you are wearing dentures. Partial dentures attach to your natural teeth by means of a special metal clasp that holds them in place.
A fixed bridge consists of one or more artificial replacement teeth that are anchored to either adjacent healthy teeth or by implants in the jawbone. Bridges look and function like natural teeth. While bridges do not prevent bone loss, they do prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
A dental implant can be used to support a bridge or to replace a single missing tooth. The metal rod implanted into the jaw provides the same stimulation that tooth roots would prevent bone loss. A tooth prosthesis attaches to the implant. Its appearance, function, and care are virtually identical to that of a natural tooth.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Restorations in Philadelphia, PA
Dental restorations return the mouth to approximately the function and appearance it had before the tooth was lost. Some can also help prevent the changes in the mouth that a missing tooth can cause.
Request an appointment or call Frankford Dental Care at 215-302-1746 for an appointment in our Philadelphia office.
A broken tooth can affect both oral health and confidence. Whether caused by biting into something hard, an accident, or underlying decay, prompt dental care is essential to prevent further damage and restore normal function. Fortunately, modern dentistry provides several reliable treatments that repair structural damage and rebuild a natural-looking smile. A cosmetic, family, or…
A broken tooth can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience, requiring prompt attention to prevent further damage or complications. Whether caused by an accident, biting into something hard, or untreated decay, addressing a broken tooth quickly is crucial to maintaining oral health. Understanding the steps to take after experiencing a broken tooth can help preserve…
A broken tooth is a common dental issue that fills most people with dread, especially when the crack is near the front of the mouth. Front teeth fractures are quite common among children, teenagers, and young adults. Fortunately, a dentist can recommend various repair or replacement options for damaged front teeth to help patients resume…
Although a dentist provides services on a patient-by-patient basis, the one thing strongly encouraged for…
Proper dental implant care is essential for ensuring their long-term success and protecting your overall…
A lot of things people do in life are either taught or habit, including getting…
Getting a regular dental checkup is critical for good oral health. But what if there…
Dental anxiety refers to feelings of fear, stress, or unease related to dental appointments or…
The dentist often does a dental checkup and cleaning to look for cavities or other…
