There are many reasons why most people lose multiple teeth at an early age. For one, many people do not take care of their teeth properly. They take their teeth for granted despite knowing the best practices, which include brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily. Other reasons include poor lifestyle choices such as using tobacco products and consuming sugary drinks regularly
Some people can’t afford dental care, while others have certain health conditions that make it challenging to keep their teeth healthy. Then there are those who just dealt a bad hand with their teeth. Whatever the reason, there are now more people missing teeth than ever before.
Studies show that around 178 million people in the United States have at least one tooth missing. You might consider getting replacement teeth if you’re one of these people. Here are four things you need to know before doing so.
Why Teeth Replacement Is Actually Essential
Some people think a tooth replacement is just for cosmetic purposes. They believe that as long as their teeth aren’t visible when they smile, there’s nothing to worry about.
However, missing teeth can lead to many problems if left untreated. For one, it can affect your oral health. When you have a gap in your teeth, plaque and tartar can build up in that area more easily. This can then lead to gum disease and other dental problems.
Missing teeth can also affect your eating habits. You might find it difficult to chew properly, leading to indigestion and other digestive problems. Additionally, it can also affect your speech.
And finally, missing teeth can also affect your self-esteem and confidence. This is why it makes sense to consider getting replacement teeth, even if it’s just for cosmetic purposes.
You Have More Options Than You Think
In the past, the only option for people missing teeth was getting dentures. However, several other options are available these days that provide a more natural look and feel. These include dental implants and dental bridges.
Each teeth replacement option has its own pros and cons. Here’s a summary of each:
Dentures
Dentures are the most affordable teeth replacement option. You can easily remove them, making cleaning and maintenance a breeze. Dentures these days look more natural compared to when they first appeared on the market.
The downside is that they can slip and move around in your mouth, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Dentures can also make it difficult to eat and speak. Since they don’t provide any support to the jawbone, they can cause the bone to deteriorate over time.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are more expensive than dentures and more comfortable and durable. They’re also semi-permanent, meaning you can’t remove them like dentures.
This tooth replacement option requires filing down the surrounding teeth to support the false tooth or teeth. This can damage healthy teeth and make them more susceptible to decay and gum disease.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most expensive teeth replacement option but offer the most natural look and feel. Many people invest in implants because they’re the only solution that doesn’t damage healthy teeth.
One con of dental implants is that they require surgery to insert the titanium posts into the jawbone. The healing process can take several months, and since it is a surgical procedure, there’s a risk of infection. People with certain health conditions, such as diabetes, are not good candidates for dental implants.
Despite the risks, dental implants are often the best choice for people with missing teeth. This is because they are also the most durable and comfortable option.
Considering the benefits and drawbacks of each option will make it easier to decide which teeth replacement is suitable for you. Of course, your dentist can help determine which one is the best choice for you.
You Can Get Multiple Dental Implants
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to have all of your teeth removed to get dental implants. In fact, many people only opt for implants to replace one or a few missing teeth. This is called single tooth replacement.
Another option is multiple tooth replacement. This is when you get two or more implants to support a dental bridge. This is a good solution for people who are missing several teeth in a row.
If you are missing more than one tooth and want to restore a whole arch of teeth, you might consider getting an all-on-4 dental implant procedure. This is when experts place four titanium posts in the jawbone to support an entire set of false teeth. All-on-4 implants offer a more secure and comfortable fit compared to traditional dentures.
Keep in mind that getting dental implants is a major surgery. You must consult your dentist to see if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. You also need to find a reliable clinic with licensed professionals who can perform the procedure. Do your research, check their reviews, and compare prices to get the best value for your money.
You Might Need More Than One Visit to the Dentist
Getting your replacement teeth usually requires more than one visit to the dentist. This is especially true if you’re getting dental implants. The first step is typically a consultation where the dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays to determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
If you are, the next step is inserting the titanium posts into your jawbone. You will have to undergo local anesthesia, which usually takes an hour. It can take several weeks or even months for the area to heal correctly.
Once healed, you’ll need to return for a second surgery to have the artificial teeth attached to the posts. This is usually an outpatient procedure that doesn’t require anesthesia.
Replacing missing teeth is a significant decision with many factors to consider. Be sure you understand all the implications of replacement teeth before you make your final decision. And if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to consult with your dentist—they’ll be more than happy to help you through the process!
