Missing teeth can lead to problems with everything from patients’ bite patterns to their self-confidence, but thankfully, modern dentistry offers a wide variety of solutions. Those who are ready to address their missing teeth may want to ask their dentists about the following options for tooth replacement in Indianapolis IN.
Removable Partial Denture
Removable partial dentures are worn during the day and taken out at night while patients sleep. They offer an affordable and effective solution to missing teeth and do not require that patients have their healthy teeth filed down in order to have them installed. It’s important to note that patients do need to have at least a few healthy teeth in order to take advantage of this solution, though; those who are missing an entire top or bottom arch should instead look into full dentures.
Dental Bridges
Unlike removable partial dentures, dental bridges are fixed in place in the patient’s mouth using dental cement. This form of Tooth Replacement in Indianapolis IN does require that the patient’s existing teeth be cut down on either side of the gap where they are missing teeth, though. They also require periodic replacement and can lead to dental decay if they are not cared for properly.
Dental Implants
Dental implants constitute one of the most effective solutions to missing teeth offered by modern dentistry. The implant procedure involves a minor surgery to implant a metal screw directly into the patient’s jawbone, which will be covered by a permanent crown once the implant has healed. Once the procedure is finished, the patient’s false tooth will both look and feel just like his or her natural teeth and can be maintained through routine brushing and flossing.
Consequences of Failing to Take Action
Failing to have a missing tooth replaced can lead to some devastating consequences over time. It will cause the patient’s jaw bone to begin disintegrating and may cause otherwise healthy teeth to shift in the mouth in order to fill the gap where the missing tooth used to sit, which can lead to changes in the patient’s bite pattern and increase his or her chances of developing further tooth decay. Instead of ignoring the problem, readers should click here to investigate their options today.
