Don't Ignore a Missing Tooth

By Joseph Luke, DDS, MS

Joseph T. Luke, DDS

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Don't Ignore a Missing Tooth

According to the American Dental Association, the average adult between the ages of 20-64 has three or more decayed or missing teeth.

Your teeth are designed to work together to help you chew, speak and smile.

If you are missing one or more teeth, there are plenty of reasons to correct the problem. For one thing, a large space between your teeth may affect how you speak or eat. Even if it's not noticeable, a missing molar can affect how you chew.

Remaining teeth may shift and in some cases, bone loss can occur around a missing tooth. This shifting increases the risk of periodontal disease and dental decay of the adjacent teeth. In addition, shifted teeth can adversely affect your bite, as well as the cosmetics of your face and smile.

With today's advances, you don't have to suffer when a tooth is lost. There are many options to replace missing teeth including bridges, dentures and implants.

Bridges are frequently used to replace one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge is made by creating acrownfor the teeth on either side of the space and placing a false tooth or teeth between the crowns. The crowns, sometimes called caps, can be supported by natural teeth or by implants. The false tooth or teeth are attached to the crowns and fill the empty space.

When many teeth are missing, dentures are often used. Dentures can be complete or partial. Complete dentures cover your entire upper or lower jaw. Partials are used when some natural teeth still remain.

In recent years, dental implants have become more common. Dental implants replace the roots ofmissing teethand support singlecrowns, largebridgesanddentures. State-of-the-art technology makes it possible for replacement teeth supported bydental implantsto look, feel and function like natural teeth.

If you have lost a tooth or multiple teeth, you should speak with your dentists about which replacement option is best for you. An investment now can preserve your appearance and help prevent further problems.