Tooth loss for many patients can feel painful and personal. Whether the loss was caused by trauma, tooth decay, or gum disease, it’s important to understand that you’re not alone. In fact, according to the American College of Prosthodontists, an estimated 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and about 40 million Americans are missing all their teeth. Whether you’re dealing with a single extraction, or the loss of all your teeth, knowing there are solutions out there that fit your personal circumstance can be comforting.
However, missing teeth create oral health risks that can soon become a concern. So figuring out the best solution for you sooner rather than later can save some heartache (or toothache) for a future you.
Denture Fountain of Youth®
Dentures have a bad reputation that is, for the most part, well-earned. Traditional dentures are generally not well-fitted, making for poor functionality. The Denture Fountain of Youth®, also known as FOY ® Dentures, are made of quality materials, and utilize neuromuscular dentistry to ensure the best possible appearance, comfort, and function. Because the maximum comfort position of your jaw corresponds to the position of maximum support for your face, FOY ® Dentures can help to eliminate the “sunken” appearance common with traditional dentures.
For patients who have lost all their teeth or are facing the loss of their teeth, this can be a great solution.
Dental Bridges
If you’re only missing one tooth, a dental bridge, sometimes called a fixed denture, may be a good option. A dental bridge is essentially a composite tooth held in place by neighboring teeth. Unlike a “flipper” or removable denture, bridges cannot be taken out — they won’t slip out, either! Bridges can, unfortunately, be difficult to clean around, and also rely on the size and shape of your mouth. If teeth have already shifted, a dental bridge might not be an option. It’s also important to note that dental bridges don’t stimulate the jaw bone, meaning bone loss can occur.
Dental Implants
One of the most effective solutions for replacing missing teeth are dental implants. While a dental implant may sound scary, they actually carry a 98 percent success rate, and many patients report little to no pain during the procedure. They’re also permanent, require no special cleaning, and function much like a regular tooth.
Dental implants work because of a process discovered in the 1950s called osseointegration. When titanium is introduced to bone tissue in the body, the body will integrate with it as if it were natural matter. The way dental implants work is simple. First, a titanium implant is inserted into the jaw bone, and then after the body has fully integrated with the implant, a custom-made ceramic crown is attached to the implant. Because this crown is designed to match the luster and shade of your natural teeth, it’s nearly impossible to detect.
If you’ve been searching for the best solution to replace missing teeth, the best solution would be to schedule a consultation with your local dentist. By reviewing your personal oral health history, your dentist can suggest the best option for you.
To learn whether you are a candidate for dental implants, FOY® Dentures, or dental bridges, please call (803) 781-9090 or contact Smile Columbia Dentistry today and schedule an appointment at our Columbia, South Carolina office.
