Replacing Missing Teeth
Replacing Missing Teeth in Charlotte, NC
Your oral health is essential to your overall well-being. When your teeth are healthy, you feel better too. Losing a tooth can impact your ability to chew, speak clearly, and maintain a balanced bite. Over time, missing teeth can place excessive strain on remaining teeth, increasing the risk of premature wear, damage, and even further tooth loss. Additionally, it may lead to headaches or jaw pain.
Missing teeth also affect facial structure and bone health. In fact, without stimulation from tooth roots, the jawbone begins to deteriorate, losing up to 25% of its supporting structure within the first year of tooth loss. Acting quickly can make implant placement easier, as bone loss becomes more significant over time. The good news? Dental implants function just like natural teeth, preserving your bone, oral health, and appearance. Your dentist and implant specialist will help you explore the best tooth replacement options for your needs.
Tooth Replacement Options
There are various solutions to replace missing teeth, ranging from temporary to long-term options. Most people missing one or more teeth, or those dissatisfied with dentures, can benefit from tooth replacement. Age is generally not a limiting factor, but certain conditions—such as smoking, diabetes, or prior radiation treatment—may affect the success of dental implants. Your dentist will take X-rays to assess whether your jaw can support implants, and additional imaging may be needed to determine if further procedures are required
Our Options Include:
A fixed bridge consists of connected replacement teeth that are cemented onto adjacent natural teeth for support. To prepare for the bridge, the outer enamel of the supporting teeth is typically removed or reshaped.
A flipper is a lightweight, removable plastic tooth attached to a retainer. This is an inexpensive and temporary option for replacing missing teeth.
A metal and plastic partial denture is a more durable removable option held in place by wire clasps. It can be taken out and reinserted as needed.
For those missing all teeth in one or both jaws, complete dentures are a common solution. While some individuals adapt well to dentures, others may find them uncomfortable due to variations in jaw shape and size.
Dental implants provide the most permanent and comfortable tooth replacement option. They create a strong foundation for artificial teeth and support overall jaw health. Unlike bridges, implants do not require altering adjacent healthy teeth. Additionally, they can last a lifetime and provide stable, natural-looking, and functional tooth replacements.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Compared to traditional tooth replacement methods, dental implants offer significant advantages. Unlike bridges, which require the reduction of adjacent teeth, implants preserve natural tooth structure. Additionally, removable dentures can be inconvenient and may slip, causing discomfort or embarrassment. Dental implants provide a stable, long-term solution that looks, feels, and functions like natural teeth.