Missing teeth compromise all aspects of your oral health and can even take a toll on your quality of life. A single missing tooth will leave a gap in your jawbone that creates space between adjacent teeth. This hole in your bite allows teeth to shift or loosen. This will increase the chances of additional tooth loss. Missing teeth are one of the most common dental concerns Bella Smiles treats in Long Island, NY.
Without the tooth root to stimulate bone growth, patients will suffer from gradual bone loss. This loss of structure in the jaw will change the shape of your entire face. Deep wrinkles will form around the mouth, your mouth will begin to sink into your face, and your chin will look pointed. These facial feature changes can make you look older than you really are.
Missing teeth can also cause gums to recede. This leaves you more susceptible to sensitivity and tooth loss. It also puts you at a higher risk of developing gum disease and tooth decay.
Bella Smiles in Riverhead, Roslyn, and Nesconset, NY offers a range of modern tooth replacement options. We provide complete care that can restore your smile and boost your confidence. We will tailor your treatment plan to your personal needs, cosmetic goals, and budget. Our comprehensive approach to tooth replacement will help rebuild a stable oral foundation, a beautiful smile, and a healthy, functional bite.
Solutions for Replacing Missing Teeth
We provide patients with complete and personalized treatment plans to address all their oral health concerns. Your Roslyn, NY dentist will evaluate your dental health, personal concerns, and end goals. Then they will work with you to provide the treatment that works best for you.
Together, you will choose the procedures necessary to replace your missing teeth that will provide you with optimal results. Advancements in modern dentistry, materials, techniques, and technology have made missing tooth replacements more natural, effective, and comfortable.
Your dentist will choose a tooth replacement option for you based on several conditions. We will consider your health, jaw structure, the number and location of missing teeth, and cosmetic goals when forming a plan.
Dental implants: Dental implants are the most natural and secure way to replace any number of missing teeth. Bella Smiles offers all types of implants for permanent tooth replacement.
Dental bridge: A dental bridge can be permanently secured to replace one lost tooth or several consecutive teeth.
Dentures or partial dentures: Dentures will replace an entire top or bottom arch of teeth. Modern dentures are more natural-looking and comfortable to wear. Dentures can be secured in place with the addition of dental implants.
All-On-Four Implants: Edentulous patients may benefit from the All-on-Four dental implant procedure. Your dentist can remove the remaining teeth and place dental implants in a single visit to our Roslyn, NY dentist office.
Missing Teeth FAQs
What happens if you don’t replace a missing tooth?
If you don’t replace a missing tooth, it can cause other teeth to shift out of place. This can lead to problems like uneven teeth, trouble chewing, and issues with speaking clearly. Over time, the bone in the area where the tooth is missing can shrink, which may change the shape of your face. It can also put extra stress on your jaw, leading to pain or jaw joint problems, like TMJ issues.
What are my options for a missing tooth?
Replacing a missing tooth helps keep your smile healthy and strong. Some common options include:
- Dental Implants: A long-lasting choice that looks and feels like a natural tooth. The implant is placed in the jaw and supports a crown.
- Dental Bridges: A bridge fills the gap by attaching to the teeth next to the missing one.
- Partial Dentures: These are removable and replace one or more missing teeth.
- Full Dentures: If you are missing all of your teeth on the top or bottom, full dentures can restore your smile and help you chew.
Your dentist can help you pick the option that will best fit your needs.
Can I get a denture for one tooth?
Yes, you can get a denture for one tooth. These are called single-tooth dentures or partial dentures. They are removable and replace the missing tooth. Another option is a dental implant, which many people prefer because they stay in place, look natural, and keep the bone in your jaw strong.
Why is it important to replace a missing tooth?
Replacing a missing tooth is about more than just how your smile looks. A missing tooth can make it harder to chew, which might cause stomach problems over time. It can also affect how you talk, making it harder to speak clearly. If the gap isn’t filled, it can weaken the teeth next to it and lead to more tooth loss. Replacing the tooth helps protect your teeth, jaw, and overall oral health.
How long does it take to replace a missing tooth?
The time it takes depends on the method you choose. Dental implants can take several months because the implant needs to heal in the jaw before the crown is attached. Bridges and dentures usually take less time, sometimes just a few weeks. Your dentist can explain the process and help you plan the best treatment for your situation.
Can children or teens replace missing teeth?
Yes, children and teens can replace missing teeth. The dentist might suggest a temporary fix, like a partial denture or a space maintainer, until their jaw has finished growing. Once the jaw is fully developed, you can get a permanent solution like a dental implant. It’s important to work with a dentist to find the right option for their age and needs.
Replacing a missing tooth early helps protect your teeth and jaw, keeps your smile healthy, and avoids future problems. Your dentist can help you decide on the best way to restore your smile.
Schedule A Dental Exam & Consultation
If you are missing one tooth, or all of your teeth, do not wait any longer to rebuild your smile. Schedule a dental exam with Dr. Lotardo in one of our Long Island dentist offices. We welcome new patients from Nesconset, Riverhead, Roslyn, and many communities on the North Shore of Long Island.