What Options Are Available From a Cosmetic Dentist for Tooth Loss

A cosmetic dentist offers options to replace missing teeth. You have several different choices available, depending on where the missing teeth are located. Implants, bridges, and partial dentures are all options. Read on to learn about each treatment that the cosmetic dentist has available.

Dental implant

For patients who have only one missing tooth, a dental implant can be a good choice. A cosmetic dentist will use a surgical procedure to place an implant in the jawbone. Once this fuses with the patient’s jawbone, the false tooth can be placed on it. An implant is most often used to replace a single tooth.

However, multiple teeth can be attached to the implant as well. This type of tooth-replacement option works well if a patient wants the look and feel of natural teeth. Dental implants can also last for several years without having to be replaced or repaired. A cosmetic dentist can help a patient determine if a dental implant is the right choice.

Fixed bridge

A bridge is often fixed in place, so it is known as a fixed bridge. It can bridge the gap between one or more teeth. Getting a bridge from a cosmetic dentist often involves several trips. The dentist will need to place the implant and then customize the patient’s bridge.

The dentist will then need to place the bridge once it has been created. The good news, however, is that a bridge will look, function, and feel like natural teeth. The patient also will not need to remove it for cleaning. Cleaning the bridge with the natural teeth will help to keep it clean.

Resin-retained bridge

Patients who do not or cannot get an implant may want to consider a resin-retained bridge. A fixed bridge is often used for teeth that the patient uses for chewing. However, missing front teeth can often be replaced with a resin-retained bridge. Because the front teeth do not take as much pressure, the replacement does not need to be as sturdy. A cosmetic dentist can attach a resin attached bridge to the nearby teeth.

Removable partial denture

This tooth-replacement option consists of false teeth placed on an acrylic base. A removable partial denture is often used to replace a small area of missing teeth. It provides the patient with teeth that function and look like natural teeth. A removable partial denture can help a patient chew easier. However, these dentures may not be as sturdy as an implant or a bridge, resulting in discomfort for the patient. This happens if the patient wears the denture for an extended period.

Benefits of replacing missing teeth

The dentist will do what is possible to keep the patient’s natural teeth intact. But sometimes, severe damage leaves the cosmetic dentist no other choice but to remove at least one tooth. Despite tooth loss, replacing missing teeth is now easier because of the available options. An individual can get the right dental restoration based on budget and needs. Here are the benefits of replacing missing teeth:

• It can restore the appearance of one’s smile. Missing teeth can affect one’s smile. It can cause low self-esteem and isolation. This can happen even if there is only one missing tooth. The cosmetic dentist can replace the tooth with stable restorations. Matching the restorations to the neighboring natural teeth will allow them to blend in the mouth, resulting in higher self-esteem.
• It can improve dental function. The cosmetic dentist can improve the function of dental arches. This will make the patient eat and speak better. Brand-new teeth can co-exist with natural teeth to bring back the efficiency of the person’s dentition.
• It can reinforce the remaining teeth. The large pockets from tooth loss can invite gum disease and tooth decay. This will result in a weaker and less efficient dental function. Dental restorations can make dental arches stronger and more efficient.
• It helps maintain the facial structure. Tooth loss leads to jawbone loss. The lack of a complete jawbone can affect the support for the facial structures. This can result in a sunken and older appearance. The cosmetic dentist can help prevent jawbone loss and maintain the support for the facial structure.

Visit a cosmetic dentist today

If you have missing teeth, you have several options available to you. You might consider removable partial dentures, fixed bridges, or implants. Resin-retained bridges are another option. Visiting a cosmetic dentist can help you make the right decision about what type of option to choose.

Request an appointment here: https://www.santamonicadental.com or call Santa Monica LiveWell Dentistry at (310) 907-7780 for an appointment in our Santa Monica office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Cosmetic Dentist in Santa Monica, CA.