Replacing missing or extracted teeth is essential for the patient’s health and confidence. Dr. James Furgurson and Dr. Nathan White work one-on-one with patients who suffer from missing teeth. They will take the time to evaluate the patient’s current oral health and goals before suggesting the best solution for them. Chapel Hill Family and Cosmetic Dentistry welcomes patients from Durham, NC, who want a solution for their missing teeth.
Why You Should Replace Missing Teeth
You may not realize it, but even one missing tooth can lead to serious oral and physical health complications. Once a tooth is lost, the underlying bone will begin to deteriorate. The jaw bone relies on teeth roots to provide stimulation. Without the roots, bone resorption is inevitable.
Bone loss in the jaw causes the mouth to sink into the face, the chin to jut out further, and deep wrinkles to form around the mouth. These facial feature changes make a person appear much older than they really are.
Also, gaps along the arch will cause the remaining teeth to shift. Teeth help each other remain in proper position. When one is missing, the surrounding teeth will move towards the gap. Missing and misplaced teeth along the arch will make it difficult to clean the remaining teeth properly. Because of this, the patient is now more prone to gum disease, tooth decay, and even more tooth loss.
Aside from the health repercussions of missing teeth, a patient can suffer serious self-esteem issues. You may feel embarrassed when speaking or eating in front of other people. Overall, between the embarrassment and health problems, missing teeth can affect a patient’s quality of life.
Treatment Options for Missing Teeth in Durham, NC
We offer multiple options to restore the look and function of one or more lost permanent teeth:
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to replace one or two missing teeth. This is a fixed dental restoration that can only our dentist can remove. A bridge is made up of two dental crowns located on each end with the replacement tooth located in the middle (the pontic).
Our dentist will attach the dental crowns to two teeth on each side of the gap. He must prepare these adjacent teeth by grinding them down before placing the bridge. To learn more about dental bridges, see Dental bridges.
Dentures
When all or most of an arch of teeth are missing, the dentist will use dentures to help restore function and aesthetics. Traditional dentures are removable and incapable of restoring full function to your teeth. However, they are much better than not replacing the teeth at all. While you will have to follow a strict diet, they will help return aesthetics to your smile. To learn more about dentures, see Dentures.
Dental Implants
This is the only permanent solution for tooth loss. A dental implant is a metal post that a dentist or oral surgeon will surgically place in the jaw bone to support the replacement teeth. Even though this is the most costly option, it offers more health benefits and a better quality of life. This is the only solution capable of halting the deterioration of the underlying bone.
The implants will act as replacement tooth roots to prevent bone loss. Dental implants offer patients the best solution for tooth loss because they function, look, and feel like natural, healthy teeth. Dr. Furgurson and Dr. White offer full services for dental implants at their dentist office near Durham, NC. To learn more about our implant dentistry, see Dental Implants.
Missing Teeth FAQs
We welcome you to learn more about missing teeth in Durham, NC, with answers to these common patient questions:
What is the best option for missing teeth?
The best option for missing teeth depends on your needs, but dental implants are often considered the top choice. Implants are strong, permanent replacements that look and feel like natural teeth. We recommend implants to support bridges, dentures, and crowns.
How long does it take to replace a missing tooth?
The time it takes to replace a missing tooth depends on your chosen treatment. It can take several months to get an implant-supported restoration. First, a surgeon places the implant into your jawbone, which needs time to heal and bond with the bone. This can take about 3 to 6 months. After that, the dentist will attach the replacement tooth.
The process is usually quicker for a dental bridge, taking just a few weeks. You may need a couple of visits to the dentist to get it placed. If you’re getting dentures, it can also take a few weeks, depending on whether you need to have other teeth removed or your mouth prepared.
Our dentist will tell you the exact timeline based on your situation and treatment. While it can take longer to get implants, many patients find the lasting results worth the treatment time.
How much is it to replace missing teeth?
The cost of replacing missing teeth can vary depending on the treatment you choose and the number of missing teeth. It will cost less to get a single implant and crown than to replace all your missing teeth with implant dentures. Dental implants often cost more than removable restorations.
In addition, if you have oral health problems, pretreatments can add to your treatment cost. We must treat problems like gum disease and tooth decay before restorative care.
Insurance may cover part of the cost, so checking with your provider is essential. Our dentist can give you a more accurate estimate based on your needs.
How soon can I get a dental implant after a tooth extraction?
You can get a dental implant right after a tooth is extracted if your gums and bone are healthy enough. This is called an “immediate implant.” However, sometimes, you must wait a few months after the extraction for your gums and bone to heal.
The exact timing depends on your situation. We will help you decide what’s best for you. You can get a dental implant as soon as your mouth is ready to support it.
Do missing teeth affect my facial appearance or jawline?
Yes, missing teeth can affect your facial appearance and jawline. When you lose a tooth, the bone in your jaw where it used to be starts to shrink because it no longer has support. Over time, this bone loss can cause your face to look sunken or older than it is.
Your teeth also play an important role in supporting the shape of your cheeks and lips. Missing teeth can change how your face looks because there’s less support for these areas. For example, your cheeks might look hollow, or your jawline may seem weaker.
How can missing teeth impact my speech?
Missing teeth can impact your speech in several ways. Your teeth help you pronounce words clearly by controlling airflow and giving your tongue a surface to press against while you speak. If you’re missing one or more teeth, especially in the front of your mouth, it can make it harder to pronounce certain sounds.
For example, sounds like “s,” “sh,” “th,” and “f” might come out unclear or distorted without the support of your teeth. You might also notice a lisp or slurring when you talk.
Missing teeth can also change how your jaw moves, which affects how you form words. This can make speaking feel uncomfortable or awkward.
When you replace missing teeth with dental solutions like implants, bridges, or dentures, it can help restore normal speech. These treatments fill the gaps in your mouth. They give you the support to speak clearly and confidently again. If you have speech issues from missing teeth, talk to our dentist about your options for restoring your smile and voice.
Is there a specific way to care for a mouth with missing teeth while I’m deciding on a replacement?
Yes, first, you should continue to brush and floss twice a day. Make sure to gently clean around the gap so that you don’t irritate your gums. Also, avoid chewing hard or sticky foods on the side where the tooth is missing. These could hurt your gums or cause other teeth to move out of place.
Make sure to keep up with your dental check-ups. Our dentist can help monitor the situation and give you advice about when to replace the tooth.
Do missing teeth increase the risk of tooth decay?
Yes, missing teeth can increase the risk of tooth decay. When a tooth is missing, the neighboring teeth may shift into the empty space. This can make it harder to clean between your teeth and create areas where food and plaque can build up. These hard-to-reach spots are more likely to develop cavities.
A missing tooth can put more pressure on the surrounding teeth. This makes them more vulnerable to damage or decay over time. Replacing missing teeth can help protect your remaining teeth and keep your mouth healthy.
Restore Lost Teeth
A durable restoration can prevent facial sagging, difficulty eating, and further tooth loss. Treat missing teeth in Durham, NC. Call us today at 919.736.6175 or schedule a dental appointment with us online. Please let us know if you have questions about replacing your missing teeth.