Replacing a missing tooth is more important than you may realize. Obviously, there are cosmetic issues. Without a full set of teeth, you may feel self-conscious about your appearance. However, there are other reasons for making sure that you have a complete smile. Having all of your teeth allows you to speak and to eat properly. If you are missing teeth, bacteria and plaque can build up on your gums, leading to gum disease and tooth decay. Those empty places in your mouth can allow your remaining teeth to move out of their proper alignments, which can cause problems for your bite and cause your teeth strike each other at improper angles, which can lead to dental damage.
Dental implants are very popular for replacing missing teeth. They are very sturdy and you can care for them just as you would your natural teeth. They also strengthen your jaw bone. However, your gums and jaw bone need to be in good condition for implants to be successful, and there is some surgery involved in placing them. What’s more, certain medical conditions or medications may mean that implants are not for you. Dentures are an easy way to replace missing teeth, but not everyone is comfortable wearing them, and they do need to be cleaned every day. Our dentist, Dr. Pam Crumrine may suggest a dental bridge as a good compromise between the two. A bridge can be used to replace one tooth or several in a row. A bridge is one or more prosthetic teeth that are attached to a pair of crowns. Those crowns and the bridge are cemented in place over the two teeth at each end of the gap in your smile and can last for ten years or longer. You will need to brush your bridge when you brush your teeth, since gum disease and tooth decay can compromise your crowns and cause your bridge to fail. You will also need to floss your bridge, and since that can be difficult you may want to ask Dr. Crumrine about using a floss threader or a water flosser.
If you are missing teeth and would like to find out if a dental bridge in Beaver, Pennsylvania is right for you, we would be happy to see you for an exam and consultation. Please call 724-775-4860 today to schedule your appointment at Pamela Crumrine DDS. We look forward to helping you create the beautiful smile you deserve!
