Authored by Ceetee Sheckels in Dentistry
Published on 12-01-2009
If you have lost a tooth, there are reasons why you need to know about missing tooth replacement. While a missing tooth distracts from a nice appearance, this is only one problem. One missing tooth can affect your ability to eat and chew properly. It can also lead the teeth in the surrounding areas to shift out of place. Replacing a missing tooth will make you look better, but it is not only for cosmetic purposes.
One option for replacing a missing tooth is an implant. Although dental implants are usually more costly than the alternatives, you will not regret it if you decide that an implant is the right option for you. Not only does a good dental implant look completely natural, it is also permanent. You will not need to worry about it falling out, or having to remove it for cleaning, as you will take care of the implant the same as your natural teeth.
A dental implant involves minor dental surgery. You will have an artificial root, with an artificial tooth permanently attached to it. The benefits of dental implants are well worth the cost. Even if your insurance plan does not cover it, the health benefits of a new tooth, the natural appearance, and the convenience all add up to a dental implant being the best option for most people.
Another tooth replacement option is a bridge. A bridge works by attaching crowns to the two natural teeth on either side of the location of the missing tooth. This bridge will then hold the artificial tooth in place. A bridge is usually less expensive than implants, and is a satisfactory option for most people.
A removable appliance is the least costly option for replacing a missing tooth. While many people do choose this option primarily due to its cost-effective nature, it is also the least satisfactory option. If your main reason for getting a tooth replacement is to make eating and chewing easier, you may find that a removable appliance is not as secure as you would prefer. It also does not look as good, or as natural, as the alternative methods of tooth replacement.
In addition, a removable appliance must be cared for in a manner similar to standard dentures. If you do not want the bother of cleaning this appliance separately from your natural teeth, you should be prepared for this factor or choose a different method of tooth replacement.
If you need to have a tooth replaced, you should deal with this as soon as possible. Whether you have a missing tooth due to an accident, a pulled tooth, or any other reason, it affects both your appearance and the natural functioning of teeth. Depending upon the location of the missing tooth, attempting to eat and chew on a regular basis for a considerable period of time can even affect your digestive health. You should think about these options which are available for tooth replacement, and decide which option is the best for you.
