Because looking good and feeling good are important to us all, it is wise to maintain a healthy and attractive smile throughout life. Adults of all ages can benefit from smile-improving dental options.

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you may be particularly aware of their importance to your appearance and dental health. All your teeth work together to help you chew, speak and smile. When teeth are missing, it is difficult to do these things. Even the loss of a back tooth may cause your mouth to shift and your face to look older. Fortunately, missing teeth can be replaced, and they should be.

Choosing the correct treatment is very important. Following are three options Dr. Abbassian may suggest, depending on your needs and the best way to meet them.

Implants

A dental implant is much like a natural tooth, which has a root in your jawbone, topped by a crown that you can see. When you need an implant, your dentist inserts a metal post beneath your gum and into the bone. It fuses to the bone in your jaw and acts like the root of a tooth. Then your dentist makes a replacement crown on the metal post, designed to blend in with the way your own teeth look and feel. Dental implants also can be used to anchor dentures.

Most patients find that an implant is secure and stable – a good replacement for their own tooth. Implants, however are not an option for everyone. Because implants require surgery, patients should be in good health overall and have healthy gums. Further patients either must have adequate bone to support the implant, or be good candidates for surgery to build up the area needing the implant. Patients also should be committed to very thorough oral hygiene every day, and regular dental visits. If you are considering implants, a full evaluation by Dr. Abbassian will help determine if you would be a good candidate.

Fixed Bridges

Another alternative is a fixed bridge (sometimes called a fixed partial denture). This is a restoration that replaces or spans the space where one or more teeth have been lost. A fixed bridge is bonded or cemented into place – only a dentist can remove it.

Your appearance, dental health and the proper functioning of your mouth are all important reasons for wearing a fixed bridge. It helps maintain the natural shape of your face and may help support your lips and cheeks.

Removable Bridges

As its name describes, a removable bridge (sometimes called a removable partial denture) readily can be taken out of the mouth for cleaning. Although removable bridges generally are less expensive, fixed bridges, when indicated may feel more stable and comfortable.

Depending on your situation, however, a removable bridge may be for you. Removable bridges usually have replacement teeth attached to gum-colored plastic bases connected by metal framework. They may attach to your natural teeth with metal clasps or devices called precision attachments. A clasp less removable bridge, when indicated, may provide better support and aesthetics. Crowns on your natural teeth may improve the way a removable bridge fits your mouth.

Explore your options. How best to replace missing teeth is an important decision. Dr. Abbassian can answer your questions and help you decide which option will work best for you.