Do you have one or more missing teeth? Do you want a more balanced smile? A highly trained restorative dentist in Mount Pleasant, MI, Dr. Raymond Ribitch and his professional team offer restorative solutions for missing teeth that improve their appearance as well as improve patients’ oral health. Dental implants, dental bridges, and dentures revitalize the appearance and function of the smile.
Why Should Missing Teeth Be Replaced?
If the gaps left by missing teeth are not filled, multiple problems can arise, such as:
- Facial sagging
- Bone loss
- Shifting teeth
- Crooked teeth
- Speech issues
- Difficulty biting and chewing
Replacing missing teeth improves oral health by preventing tooth decay and future bone loss. Teeth can shift to fill in a gap left by a missing tooth, causing overcrowding and making it difficult to clean between teeth. Areas that are difficult to clean can develop tooth decay and result in tooth loss. Treating missing teeth with restorative options not only improves the appearance of teeth but helps the patient’s overall oral health. Dr. Ribitch works with an oral surgeon to help replace missing teeth. There are multiple restorative options that Dr. Ribitch offers patients.
Dental Implants
Patients who are missing one or more teeth can benefit from dental implants. Crafted from a titanium post, abutment, and dental crown, dental implants are a stable restorative option. Because they look natural and are so stable, many patients may forget that they have dental implants.
Dr. Ribitch is able to replace your missing teeth with dental implants to restore a beautiful, functional smile. A dental implant involves placing a tiny titanium post in the original bone pocket of the missing tooth. Over time, this titanium implant will bond with the bone to mimic a natural tooth and prevent bone loss. Dental implants are then capped with a custom dental crown that will give your smile a natural appearance.
Dental Bridges
Removable or secured with dental implants, dental bridges look and feel like natural teeth. Multiple consecutive teeth can be replaced with a dental bridge that is secured between adjacent natural teeth. Traditional bridges are made by creating a crown for the tooth and are supported by the neighboring teeth that are naturally remaining. A dental bridge may need to be repaired or replaced down the road and does not help to retain bone in the jaw.
Dentures & Partials
This restorative option can replace full arches of teeth. Like dental bridges, dentures can be removed or secured with dental implants for a more permanent and stable restoration. This option also makes it easier for patients to bite and chew food.
Missing Teeth FAQs
When you lose an adult tooth, it needs to be treated sooner rather than later. Learn more about missing teeth by reading the answers to these commonly asked questions.
Is it okay to not replace just one missing tooth?
Even one missing tooth can impact both the look of your mouth and face and your oral health. The jawbone starts to deteriorate, causing the face to sag in that area. The teeth around the hole will also start moving and shifting to fill the gap. This can lead to problems with crooked teeth and further issues with your mouth.
What are the options for replacing missing teeth?
When we consider replacing your missing teeth, we’ll perform a full oral examination to determine the best option for you. We factor in your budget, lifestyle, and overall goals when determining your tooth replacement. Whether you need dental implants or dentures, we’ll give you the best care possible.
Can porcelain veneers replace missing teeth?
No, porcelain veneers are a cosmetic solution for existing teeth. They’re not suitable for replacing a missing tooth. Porcelain veneers are just thin shells of ceramic that go over a current tooth. They’re too thin to serve as a complete tooth replacement.
Can I use a dental crown to replace my missing tooth?
A dental crown can’t replace a missing tooth on its own. Like porcelain veneers, a crown is meant to cover an existing tooth. It’s a hollow shell, so it can’t replace a missing tooth. However, a custom dental crown is the best option to complete a dental implant. We can customize a crown to match the size, shape, and shade of your existing teeth.
How soon after losing a tooth should I replace it?
It’s crucial to replace the tooth as soon as possible. The instant you lose the tooth root, the bone in that area starts to deteriorate. This continues to get worse the longer you let it go. If you have one missing tooth, you’re also more likely to lose the teeth around it. While we can replace teeth no matter how many years ago you lost them, the best results come if you replace them immediately.
Is it expensive to replace a missing tooth?
This depends on many factors. It’s easier to access the front teeth than the molars, so the location of the missing tooth in your mouth is a factor. It also depends on the restoration you’re going to get. While dental implants are the best option, they do involve additional costs like surgical procedures. We offer financing options to ensure you can get the care you need.
Replace Missing Teeth Today
If you want to help improve your oral health by replacing a missing tooth or teeth, call Dr. Ribitch and his team at 989-772-1344 to schedule an appointment. Dr. Ribitch will work to find an option that is right for you and your particular dental needs. The health of your smile influences your quality of life every day.
We have helped many patients restore and maintain oral health for a lifetime of beautiful smiles. Routine dental care, restorative dental treatments, and cosmetic dental services as needed can help keep your gums and natural teeth strong and functional for as long as possible.