Missing teeth may seem like an aesthetic problem alone. Indeed, depending on their location, missing teeth can have a negative impact on the overall appearance of the smile. This is, however, not the most pressing concern when one or more teeth are missing.
Even a single missing tooth can allow adjacent teeth to shift out of position or slide out of place. Missing teeth can change the strength and tension of the bite, hasten additional tooth loss, increase risks for tooth decay, gum disease, and infection, alter speech, and impact eating abilities. Over time, missing teeth can also allow for structural changes to the jaw, resulting in modifications to the shape, size, and density of the jawbone and permanently altering the structure of the face.
Fortunately, by replacing missing teeth, all of these issues can be avoided.
How Are Missing Teeth Replaced?
There are several tooth replacement options available at The Smile Centre:
- Dental Bridge. Dental bridges are typically anchored natural teeth on either side of a gap
- Dentures. Dentures are typically kept in place with adhesives
- Dental Implants. Implants are secured into the jaw bone
Dentures and bridges focus on the crown of the tooth. These services help to restore bite strength, speaking abilities, and facial aesthetics, but cannot stop the jaw shrinkage that accompanies tooth loss. Bridges and denatures will need to be adjusted as the jaw changes size.
Dental implants replace the roots of missing teeth. In so doing, they help to preserve jaw shape and size. What’s more, implants restore full strength, tension, and ability to the smile, and are the longest-lasting tooth replacement option.
At The Smile Centre, we offer implant-supported dentures and bridges, along with single-tooth implant restorations. Combining these services allows for the cost-effective replacement of several teeth without requiring a compromise on durability or longevity. During your initial consultation, we will listen to your concerns, discuss all appropriate treatments, and help you select the best option for your needs.
Please call The Smile Centre at 941-351-4468 to schedule your initial consultation today. We serve Sarasota and all nearby areas of Florida.