Missing teeth compromise all facets of your oral health and affect your emotional well-being. They impact the ability for proper function and health of your entire chewing system. Patients may feel embarrassed to share their smiles and are self-conscious in social or professional settings. At Claremont Dental Institute, we replace missing teeth in Claremont, CA.
Missing teeth are an all too common dental concern. Tooth loss is associated with an overall deterioration in oral wellness. However, our implant dentists offer multiple implant-supported restorations to renew the look and function of your smile. When you replace missing teeth, you not only boost your self-esteem but also prevent secondary conditions.
What are my options for replacing missing teeth?
Missing teeth can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort. However, we have many options available to replace lost teeth and restore your smile. From traditional dentures to dental implants, bridges and partial dentures, Claremont Dental Institute has a solution that can fit your needs and budget. Explore all the options available at our dental office so you can choose one that best suits your lifestyle.
Ceramic and Titanium Dental Implants
Dr. Steve Fountain has advanced training to place titanium and zirconia ceramic dental implants and restore missing teeth. Claremont Dental Institute uses the most modern and advanced techniques to place implants by combining state-of-the-art digital imaging and dental technology.
We create, place, and complete all aspects of the dental implant procedure in-house. Our dental care team oversees each phase of treatment for a convenient and predictable implant process. This means that you do not have to see multiple specialists, and it can save you time and money. To learn more about our dental implants, see Dental Implants.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are an effective and proven way to replace a few missing teeth. They are essentially custom-made prosthetic teeth that fill in the gaps of lost teeth. They can consist of things like porcelain, gold, and metal alloys.
Not only do they provide aesthetic benefits, but they also help restore the function of your mouth. To learn more about replacing your lost teeth with a dental bridge, see Dental Bridges.
Dentures
With the help of our denture services in Claremont, you can replace your lost teeth and get back your smile within weeks. Dentures are common artificial tooth prosthetics that snugly fit into the arch of your jaw. They support facial muscles and help restore your face’s natural shape.
With dentures, you can enjoy a full range of foods and speak without any difficulty. To learn more about getting a denture to replace an arch of missing teeth, see Dentures.
Why should I replace my missing teeth?
Missing teeth compromise the stability and function of your smile. When you lose a tooth, it creates a gap in the structure of your jaw. The missing root system leaves space for the teeth to shift, and the bone tissue begins to break down. But replacing your missing teeth can prevent further deterioration of your oral health.
Missing teeth increase your risk of:
- Additional tooth loss
- Gum disease
- Gum recession
- Bone loss
- Facial sagging
- Shifting or loosening of teeth
Patients with missing teeth often have a hard time eating a varied diet and may suffer from poor nutrition. Missing teeth can make it difficult to chew and may impact speech. If you don’t replace your missing teeth, surrounding teeth are more prone to shift into crooked positions or form bigger gaps in your smile.
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What is the best way to replace missing teeth?
Although many options exist for replacing missing teeth, none are as natural or effective as the dental implant. Dental implants mimic the natural ingenuity of the human tooth. Dental implants are the only missing tooth restoration that replaces the root system of the lost tooth.
Claremont Dental Institute offers biological zirconia ceramic implants and traditional titanium dental implants. We strive to provide our patients with solutions that support their personal beliefs, lifestyle, and health. Your dentist will help you choose the style of dental implant and restoration that is right for you.
Dental implants can replace a single missing tooth, or several dental implants can secure a denture or dental bridge. Because our dentist surgically implants them into your jaw, they must be a biocompatible alloy. This material is also used for artificial joints and is rarely rejected by the body. The jawbone will fuse with the biocompatible metal to create a stable anchor for the final dental restoration or prosthetic.
Dental implants look, function, and feel like natural teeth. When you choose dental implants, you enjoy improved oral health, jaw stability, and bite function.
Why is replacing missing teeth essential? Replacing missing teeth ensures that the surrounding teeth do not shift. If you do not replace missing teeth, your teeth will be more prone to breaking, cracking, forming cavities, and shifting, resulting in the loss of more teeth.
More Missing Teeth FAQs
Do you want to know more? We can help. Learn more about missing teeth in our Claremont, CA office with answers to these common questions.
What happens if I don’t replace a missing tooth?
If a missing tooth is left untreated, the surrounding teeth may shift into the empty space and lead to misalignment and bite issues. Over time, jawbone loss can occur where the tooth’s root once was. This can change your facial structure and make future tooth replacement more difficult. Early replacement helps preserve both function and appearance.
Can missing teeth affect how I speak?
Yes, missing teeth can change the way you pronounce certain words or sounds, especially if they’re near the front of your mouth. You may notice a slight lisp or difficulty speaking clearly. Replacing missing teeth restores normal tongue placement and improves speech. Most patients regain confidence quickly once their smile is complete again.
How can missing teeth affect my bite?
Missing teeth can throw off your bite balance, causing remaining teeth to shift or wear unevenly. This can lead to jaw discomfort, headaches, and even TMJ issues. Over time, the uneven bite can cause additional damage or tooth loss. Replacing missing teeth helps keep your bite aligned and prevents unnecessary strain on your jaw.
Do missing teeth affect chewing and digestion?
Yes, missing teeth can make it harder to chew food thoroughly, which can lead to poor digestion and limited food choices. Many people with missing teeth avoid certain nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, or meats. Replacing lost teeth restores your ability to eat comfortably and maintain a balanced diet. This contributes to better overall health.
How long can I wait before replacing a missing tooth?
It’s best not to wait too long, as bone loss begins soon after a tooth is lost. The longer you wait, the more difficult it may become to place an implant without more procedures like bone grafting. Replacing the tooth promptly preserves bone and prevents shifting of other teeth.
What should I do if I suddenly lose a tooth?
If you lose a tooth due to injury or trauma, try to see your dentist immediately, ideally within an hour. If possible, place the tooth back in the socket or keep it in milk or saliva to preserve it. The dentist may be able to reattach it or discuss replacement options. Quick action increases your chances of saving or successfully replacing the tooth.
Request a Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you’re missing teeth, contact Dr. Fountain at Claremont Dental Institute in Claremont, CA at (909) 277-6919. You can also schedule an appointment online.
Our Claremont, CA, dentist office provides patients with custom in-house dental restoration and dental implants. Our dental care team provides top-of-the-line dental care in our modern dental institute.