Tooth loss is isolating for many, but it’s more common than you may realize. At the same time, there’s a lower percentage of folks walking around these days with the telltale gap left by a missing tooth.

Modern dentistry means fewer people lose teeth and offers new ways to replace a missing tooth.

Not everyone wants to replace their missing teeth, and that’s fine! For others, doing so improves self-esteem and makes chewing easier. Take a look at these life-changing replacement options to consider when you have a missing tooth.

1. A Dental Implant Is a Permanent Solution for a Missing Tooth

Dental implants are the most well-known permanent fix for missing teeth.

If you’re interested in dental implants, you may need a referral from your usual dentist. Often, periodontists such as Dr. Suzanne Caudry install implants. Some family dentists are qualified to perform the procedure, but prepare yourself to see someone else.

The implant itself is a metal device installed in the jaw and replaces a missing tooth’s root. After the bone heals, the periodontist places an abutment and crown. Once they finish the procedure and your mouth heals, you’ll have a permanent fix that blends in with your natural teeth.

2. Use a Temporary Denture While You Wait

Dental implants are a wonderful solution to missing teeth, but the cost to replace a tooth for good can be high. If the price is prohibitive, your dentist can give you a temporary denture or “flipper” that covers the gap from your missing tooth or teeth while you save.

A temporary denture is a kind of removable retainer with a prosthetic tooth or teeth on it. If your missing tooth is on the upper jaw, it fits on the roof of your mouth. When the gap is on the bottom, it fits on your lower jaw.

3. Bridge the Gap in Your Teeth

The idiom “bridging the gap” often refers to something temporary, but a dental bridge is a permanent solution. As builders fix each side of a footbridge on solid land, so a dental professional cements a bridge to the intact teeth bordering the gap.

Most consider bridges to be long-term fixes, but they require special maintenance. They sometimes pop loose on one side and need re-cementing. Yet, that’s not much worse than the upkeep on fillings and crowns you may be familiar with.

Brighten Your Life With Great Tips

Having a missing tooth isn’t always bad for your dental health, but it can affect you in many intangible ways. If you choose to replace a missing tooth or missing teeth, these replacement options will improve your self-esteem and quality of life.

You’re in the right place if you want other smart, simple advice and information to better other areas of your life. We have all you need to accomplish that goal, so click on another article and start living a brighter life today.