Losing teeth can be an emotional experience. It can affect your confidence, your ability to eat and speak, and even your overall health. But you're not alone. Millions of people around the world experience tooth loss every year.
The good news is that there are many options available to restore your smile and oral health. In this article, we'll explore the realities of lost teeth and discuss some of the restoration options available in modern dentistry.
What Happens When You Lose a Tooth?
When you lose a tooth, the surrounding bone and gum tissue begin to shrink. This can lead to a number of problems, including:
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Difficulty chewing: Chewing can become difficult or even painful, especially when it comes to harder foods. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems.
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Speech problems: Missing teeth can make it difficult to pronounce certain words clearly. This can affect your communication and social interactions.
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Shifting teeth: The teeth around the missing tooth can shift out of place, leading to a misaligned bite. This can cause pain and make it difficult to clean your teeth properly.
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Bone loss: The jawbone can deteriorate over time without the stimulation of tooth roots. This can lead to facial sagging and other cosmetic problems.
Restoration Options
Fortunately, there are many ways to restore your smile and oral health after tooth loss. Some of the most common options include:
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Dental implants: Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed in the jawbone. They provide the most natural-looking and functioning replacement for missing teeth.
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Bridges: Dental bridges are fixed partial dentures that are anchored to the teeth on either side of the missing tooth. They are a good option for people who are not candidates for dental implants.
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Partial dentures: Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth. They are a more affordable option than dental implants or bridges, but they may not be as comfortable or secure.
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Full dentures: Full dentures are removable appliances that replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw. They are typically used by people who have lost all of their teeth.
The Importance of Oral Care
Whether you have lost one tooth or all of your teeth, it is important to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and seeing your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Taking care of your remaining teeth will help to prevent further tooth loss and keep your mouth healthy.
Conclusion
Losing teeth can be a challenging experience, but it is important to remember that you have options. Modern dentistry offers a variety of restoration options that can help you regain your smile and oral health. By talking to your dentist about your specific needs and goals, you can find the best option for you.
Location
1739 NE 122nd Ave Portland, OR 97230-1914
Hours
Mondays & Tuesdays: 7 AM - 3 PM Wednesdays & Thursdays: 8 AM - 5 PM Fridays: Closed
Losing teeth can be an emotional experience. It can affect your confidence, your ability to eat and speak, and even your overall health. But you're not alone. Millions of people around the world experience tooth loss every year.