Tooth Loss Causes
Tooth loss is common in older adults and seniors, but young adults and children are also at risk of losing permanent teeth.
There are many causes of tooth loss, with the leading ones identified by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) being:
- Untreated dental decay and cavities
- Gingivitis & Periodontitis (gum disease)
- Injury or trauma to the face
- Teeth grinding (bruxism)
- Chronic illnesses and health conditions
- Improper nutrition
Lifestyle choices such as consuming sugary drinks, frequent snacking, smoking, and irregular dental hygiene can also contribute to or accelerate tooth decay and gum disease. Alarmingly, between 20% and 30% of adults have untreated tooth decay, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. It’s important to recognize how oral health affects overall health, as untreated dental issues can contribute to more serious health problems, such as heart disease or diabetes.
To reduce the risk of tooth loss, it’s essential to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings twice a year. Drink water or sugar-free beverages and avoid smoking to protect your teeth and gums.
How to Fix a Missing Tooth
Missing teeth can negatively affect your self-esteem along with your ability to eat or speak comfortably if left untreated. Luckily, there are many options for replacing missing teeth.
The most popular solution is often a dental implant, an implant is almost indistinguishable from a natural tooth, long-lasting, and low maintenance. For multiple missing teeth, your dentist may recommend an implant-supported bridge or a fixed dental bridge.
Less invasive solutions include partial dentures or a dental bridge to replace a few missing teeth. Some options are more permanent while others are more budget-friendly. Your local dentist can help you decide which solution is best based on your needs and budget.
If your teeth are damaged but still intact, treatments such as bonding, crowns, onlays, or veneers may be more suitable. In some cases, a root canal may be recommended before proceeding with these treatments.
Dental Replacement Options
Implants
A dental implant is a highly popular solution for replacing one or multiple teeth, offering a permanent, natural-looking alternative. Single or multiple tooth implants not only look and function like real teeth, but also require less maintenance compared to dentures or bridges.
First, your dentist inserts a titanium screw into the jawbone. Once the implant is secure, a prosthetic tooth is fixed on top. This option can last a lifetime and is often the most comfortable and convenient way to replace a missing tooth. The titanium screw supports the jawbone, helping to preserve its structure and prevent bone loss, which can be a risk with full dentures.
To determine the best option for your situation, it's helpful to compare implants vs bridges, as each offers distinct benefits depending on your dental needs.
Full Mouth Dental Implants
Our All-In-One Solution is ideal for people who need to replace multiple teeth. Using just four implants, you can replace your full top or bottom arch with a custom-fitted set of teeth. This option provides the highest level of bite functionality. Patients with full mouth dental implants retain up to 95% of their original bite force.
Mini Implants
There are also a range of options that provide people with all the convenience of implants but with a shorter recovery time and a less invasive procedure. Mini implants use smaller titanium rods instead of screws, making them ideal for people with jawbone loss who may not qualify for full-sized dental implants. However, they are not a suitable option for every patient. If you’re interested, consult your dentist to explore if this option is right for you.
While our SNAPSecure dentures are technically a type of denture, people find that the experience of wearing them is quite different. You can remove them for easy cleaning but while you are wearing them, they are securely attached to the surface of your mini implant. SNAPSecure dentures are usually used to replace the lower arch.
On the other hand, FIXEDSecure implants use the same mini implant technology, but they are not removable and can be worn full-time. They can replace teeth on the upper or the lower arch. People who already have SNAPSecure dentures can easily upgrade to FIXEDSecure implants in a single appointment.
Fixed Dental Bridge
A fixed dental bridge is an affordable option for replacing one or more missing teeth, usually those you need for chewing. Unlike partial dentures, a fixed bridge remains in place and doesn’t need to be removed for cleaning. This solution typically requires multiple dentist visits to ensure a proper fit.
A fixed bridge usually consists of two crowns that anchor the prosthetic teeth between them, effectively bridging the gap between missing teeth. The result is natural looking and less expensive than dental implants, although it may not be as durable. Most patients find this option more comfortable than partial dentures.
Resin-retained Bridge
A resin-retained bridge is a less invasive option, often used for front teeth. Instead of using crowns, the bridge connects to the neighboring teeth using resin. This option is much less expensive than a fixed dental bridge but it is less durable and is best suited for teeth that you don’t rely on as much for chewing, like your front teeth. To explore your options and determine the best solution for your dental needs, schedule a free consultation and x-ray with us!
Implant-supported Bridge
An implant-supported bridge is a great alternative to dentures that can replace several missing teeth in a row. These bridges are permanently mounted on dental implants for a secure fit that also helps maintain your facial structure. They attach to the jawbone, which helps to support the adjacent teeth and prevent bone loss.
Partial Dentures
A non-invasive and cost-effective way to replace multiple missing teeth is a partial denture. Unlike dental implants, partial dentures aren’t permanently fixed, making them a more affordable solution without the need for surgery.
Removable partial dentures attach to a plastic base that your dentist custom fits for your mouth. While it can take some time to adjust to wearing them, partial dentures offer a functional solution. For a more discreet yet durable option, some patients choose cast metal partial dentures, which offer greater strength and longevity compared to other materials. However, if your dentures include metal components, these may be visible when you smile.
Full Dentures
Approximately 1 in 6 U.S. adults over the age 65 lose all their teeth. If you’re missing all or most of your teeth, removable complete dentures can be an effective solution. Full dentures are a budget-friendly way to restore your smile and improve your ability to eat and speak comfortably. However, full dentures usually take time to get used to and unlike implants, do not prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Temporary vs Permanent Tooth Replacement
While waiting for a permanent solution for your missing tooth, your dentist may offer a temporary acrylic or plastic tooth replacement known as a flipper. A flipper is a temporary aesthetic fix, but it can be uncomfortable to wear and impractical for eating, and therefore it’s not suitable for long-term wear. For a more permanent and comfortable solution, mini dental implants can provide stability and function with less invasive surgery than traditional implants.
Ready to Replace Missing Teeth?
If you or someone you know needs to replace a missing tooth, contact Affordable Dentures & Implants. You’re not alone and there are options available to fit every budget. We can help you find the best tooth replacement option and restore your smile and oral health.
Find your Affordable Dentures & Implants practice near you today.