Your teeth and jaw are designed to work together. When you lose teeth, the relationship between the two ultimately suffers when remaining teeth start to shift.
Our teeth help hold each other in place and will move both towards the front of our mouths and towards the opposing jaw, unless they are stopped by something in their way, such as an adjacent or opposing tooth. Without this obstacle, shifting and bone loss will occur over time and contribute to problems in the future.
What are some of my options for replacement?
IMPLANT: Most often used in single tooth replacement cases, an implant is placed where the tooth’s root was. After a period of healing, a special post (called an abutment) and a permanent crown will be placed. Implants provide stability and longevity, while restoring natural form and function. Implants can also be used in situations where the replacement of multiple teeth is indicated as well.
BRIDGE: Dental bridges literally bridge gaps created by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is made up of crowns on either side of the gap -- and a false tooth/teeth in between (called a pontic). After the teeth around the missing tooth are prepared (reduced in size), our lab will then fabricate the bridge from an impression. Like crowns, bridges are cemented permanently and are not removable.
PARTIAL DENTURE: Partial dentures are removable appliances, most often used in situations where there are many missing teeth in need of replacement. Advances in materials and fabrication processes allows our lab to provide our patients with thin, flexible, comfortable appliances that are also strong and durable – and are able to maintain retention without the use of metal clasps.
NESBIT: A Nesbit is also a removable appliance, most often used in situations where there is just one tooth in need of replacement. They can be used as a temporary measure to hold space until a more permanent solution is implemented or can be used as a permanent solution. They are made from the same thin, flexible material as partials and are also able to maintain retention without the use of metal clasps.
Which is the right choice for me?
A beautiful smile isn’t just about esthetics…it has to be functional, too! Whether you are replacing one tooth, several teeth, or seeking cosmetic enhancement of your smile, your bite (how your teeth come together) and the overall health and stability of surrounding and supporting structures are important contributing factors when deciding on a treatment plan.
For more information on how we can help restore your smile, please Contact us through the website or call us directly at (781) 942-2020.