Missing Teeth: Options for Replacing Missing Teeth to Regain Both Function and Beauty
Missing teeth can be a major problem, negatively impacting chewing function and speech, as well as reducing smile aesthetics. Our dentistry offers several options for replacing missing teeth to regain both function and beauty!
The most common choice for tooth replacement is dental implants. They look and feel like natural teeth, are extremely durable, and prevent bone loss.
Dental Implants
Missing teeth are one of the most common dental issues faced by adults. Whether due to tooth decay or trauma, missing teeth Vista CA can cause serious problems, including the loss of other natural teeth, bone loss and shifts in your bite. The good news is that you can restore your smile with dental implants, which offer stability and longevity in your restoration.
A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed in your jaw to replace your missing tooth roots. A custom-made crown is then attached to the implant, restoring your lost tooth and improving function, aesthetics, and your confidence.
Your surgeon will first give you anesthesia to numb your gums and mouth. They will then make an incision in your gum tissue, and use a tool to create a hole in the jawbone that is the right size for the dental implant. They will then place the dental implant, and close the incision. You will then need to heal.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a reliable missing teeth replacement option. They consist of a bridge of artificial teeth, known as pontics, which are anchored in place by the natural teeth on either side of the gap. The pontics are custom-designed to mirror the color and shape of the surrounding natural teeth, resulting in a seamless appearance. This tooth restoration is sturdy and durable, enabling you to eat and speak normally.
The most common type of dental bridge consists of two abutments and one or more pontics. The abutment teeth are natural teeth that receive dental crowns to support the pontics. The pontics are artificial teeth that fill in the space left by missing teeth, restoring your smile’s aesthetics and helping you maintain proper chewing and speech function. Bridges also help prevent the shifting of adjacent teeth into the empty space, which can lead to bite problems, speech difficulties, and a higher risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
Dentures
Replacing missing teeth Vista CA is a critical step to maintaining oral health. This is because tooth loss can cause a host of problems, from a collapsed appearance to trouble eating and speaking.
Fortunately, there are a number of dental treatments that can help restore lost teeth, including dentures. These are removable appliances that can be used to replace either a full arch of missing teeth or a few teeth in the upper or lower jaws. Dentures can be fabricated from acrylic, resin, nylon and other materials.
The process of fabricating a denture begins with a standard impression of the maxillary and mandibular ridges. Using this model, we can create a more detailed and accurate impression. During the fabrication process, we will add acrylic to simulate gum tissue and natural tooth structure. We can also add pontics, which are artificial teeth that connect to adjacent natural or dental implants. Once the appliance is ready, we will schedule a fitting appointment to ensure a comfortable fit and proper placement.
Dental Sealants
Sealants are protective coatings that can be painted onto the chewing surfaces of molars and premolars to help prevent tooth decay in high-risk areas. The deep grooves and pits on these back teeth are difficult to clean with a toothbrush, and food can get trapped, leading to cavities. Dental sealants can provide a barrier against decay and make it easier for children to maintain good oral hygiene habits.
Brushing and flossing are the best defense against cavities, but many kids and adults struggle to keep up with these routines. In addition to teaching your family about the importance of proper oral hygiene, our dentistry can also recommend sealants to add an extra layer of protection. This process is painless and quick, and it requires no drilling or shots. The teeth to be sealed are first cleaned and then dabbed with an acid solution that roughens up the surface to allow the sealant to bond properly. The liquid sealant is then painted on and allowed to harden, usually with a curing light.