At Morris County Dental Associates, we know that losing a tooth to injury or decay can be difficult. Having gaps in your smile may make you lose self-confidence. However, there’s a way to create a more balanced smile with natural-looking results. Dr. Ira Goldberg is a dentist in Succasunna, New Jersey that restores missing teeth with dental implants, dental bridges, and full and partial dentures. Dr. Goldberg is dedicated to helping patients receive fuller smiles and treating dental concerns including missing teeth.
Why Should I Replace My Missing Teeth?
Left untreated missing teeth can cause gums to recede leaving the remaining teeth susceptible to sensitivity and tooth loss. Patients with lost or missing teeth are at a higher risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay. Other common problems include:
- Shifting teeth
- Bone loss
- Crooked teeth
- Facial sagging
- Speech problems
- Difficulty chewing
- Difficulty biting
Types of Missing Teeth Treatments
Dr. Goldberg is a restorative dentist that specializes in replacing missing teeth. He offers several solutions including dental implants. After examining your mouth, Dr. Goldberg will find the best tooth replacement solution for you. While teeth implants and implant-secured solutions are the best option, he can also replace teeth with traditional dentures and dental bridges.
Dental Implants
Made of titanium posts, dental implants are a stable solution that acts as artificial tooth roots. Your oral surgeon surgically inserts dental implants into your jawbone. He will let your mouth heal over a period of a few months. Then the dentist will attach a permanent dental crown to the top. Multiple dental implants can also secure dental bridges, dentures, and partial dentures.
Dental implants are the only permanent solution for tooth loss. When the implants fuse to the bone, it provides a sturdy and secure base for the permanent teeth. No other tooth replacement solution can offer this level of support for the dental restoration. However, implant restorations are more costly, and treatment time is significantly longer. To learn more about the benefits of teeth implants, see Dental Implants.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge can effectively replace one or more teeth. The bridgework is made up of dental crowns and pontics, which are the false teeth. Your dentist will need to prepare the two teeth on both sides of the gap. Then the dental crown portion of the bridge is secured to these teeth, known as anchor teeth. You can also choose to have your bridge secured with teeth implants.
A dental bridge that is cemented to anchor teeth is fairly stable, but an implant-secured dental bridge often provides a more secure fit. Many patients also find that a dental bridge secured to teeth implants make it easier for them to bite and chew. With dental implants, there is no need to permanently reduce the size of healthy teeth. To learn more about the dental bridge process, see Dental Bridge.
Dentures and Partials
Patients who are missing multiple teeth or whole arches of teeth can benefit from full and partial dentures. A full denture will replace an entire row of teeth on the top or bottom arch. Partial dentures replace a few missing teeth in the top or bottom row of teeth. A denture is made up of a base made out of acrylic and sometimes metal with false teeth attached to it. Removable dentures will help restore the form and function of teeth.
Like dental bridges, dental implants can also secure dentures. Implant dentures are much more stable and secure. They will provide you with better chewing capabilities and you will not need to limit your diet. Implant dentures require anywhere from four to eight dental implants. To learn more about the benefits of dentures, see Dentures and Partials.
Missing Teeth FAQs
If you are missing teeth, we understand that you may be overwhelmed with your tooth replacement options. Additionally, you may be wondering about the side effects of missing teeth. Listed are the most frequently asked questions and answers about missing teeth. If your concern is not covered, please contact our office for additional help.
What are my options if I have missing teeth?
If you have missing teeth the most common option is dental implants. Dental implants look, feel, and function like your natural teeth. They are a permanent solution to missing teeth.
Can missing teeth cause jaw problems?
Yes, missing teeth can lead to jaw problems. They can make your jawbone weak, which may result in a fractured jaw or bone loss.
Does missing teeth affect face shape?
Missing teeth can affect face shape, especially when multiple teeth are missing in a row. Your teeth provide structure for your mouth and cheeks, so when some are missing there is a loss of basic structure. Also, missing teeth can cause teeth to shift to fill gaps. This may cause your teeth to become crooked, which can lead to potential face shape changes.
How common is it to have missing teeth?
Missing teeth are very common. About 20% of adults are born with one or more missing teeth. Many patients also lose teeth throughout their adult life. Restorations are available for missing teeth. Call us today to schedule a consultation.
Are missing teeth genetic?
Missing teeth can be caused by a genetic predisposition. Hypodontia is a genetic condition that causes patients to be missing 1 to 5 teeth. Anodontia is a condition causing patients to be born without any teeth.
Can you live without a missing tooth?
Patients can live without missing teeth but it can cause other health problems. The longer you leave missing teeth untreated, the more likely they are to cause other issues such as more tooth loss. We recommend replacing missing teeth as soon as possible to avoid further issues.
Can missing teeth cause gum disease?
Having gaps along your arches can increase your risk of periodontal disease. For some, this makes it harder to keep teeth and gums cleans. It is possible for food and debris to get stuck, leading to infection or inflammation. Additionally, if you do not replace the lost teeth, your remaining teeth can shift out of place. Misaligned teeth are harder to clean and can also lead to gingivitis.
Will dental insurance cover the cost of replacing teeth?
Yes, most dental insurance policies will cover the cost replacing missing teeth. However, the extent and type of coverage you will receive is based on your policy. In our experience, you should expect some type of coverage for dentures and dental bridges. If you want dental implants, your policy may or may not offer coverage.
Dr. Goldberg treats missing teeth in Succasunna, NJ. You can contact his dental office, Morris County Dental Associates, at 973-298-5893 or schedule a consultation with Dr. Goldberg on our website.