We need our teeth to chew, smile, and function without feeling embarrassed. A full smile also promotes better oral health.
If you have one or more missing teeth, there are options to restore them. But first, let’s look at the role a full smile plays in oral health.
What Happens When You Lose a Tooth
A missing tooth encourages the remaining to shift around and move toward these roomy new spaces. Over time, you end up with unusual spacing and poor bite function. These shifting teeth are taxed with most chewing, which can mean additional tooth loss.
Without a tooth root to stimulate jawbone health, the bone starts to deteriorate, which can give the lower face a sunken appearance. And jawbone loss can impact otherwise healthy teeth, lead to more tooth loss, and make it difficult to wear certain prosthetics.
Tooth loss forces many people to give up their favorite foods, especially those that require complex chewing. Often, these foods are replaced with options that are not as healthy.
There is also an emotional component to tooth loss. It can leave you feeling self-conscious and uneasy.
Affordable Tooth Replacement in Lodi and Elk Grove, CA
We offer every type of tooth replacement, and our dentists can work with you to choose the most suitable option.
A Dental Bridge
A dental bridge takes over for one or two missing teeth if the tooth loss is in the same area. The bridge comprises restoration teeth with a dental crown on each end. The crowns cover healthy teeth allowing the bridge to restore your smile.
This is a fixed and customized prosthetic that does not move or slip. And it requires a special cleaning brush and floss threader for optimal sanitation. A team member can show you how best to care for your dental bridge.
A Denture or Partial Denture
A complete denture takes over when all teeth are missing. It is a custom-designed prosthetic that fits over the gum, relying on suction and gravity for stabilization. You choose the tooth and gum color.
Partial dentures are similar but stand in for partial tooth loss. They depend on healthy remaining teeth and support clips for stabilization.
A Dental Implant or Implant Denture
Dental implants have been known to last decades and even for life. They are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in the gum. Once there, they integrate into the bone and are later capped with a custom-colored dental crown.
Implant-supported dentures in Lodi and Elk Grove, CA, are ideal for patients looking for a fixed or attached solution to tooth loss. Your dentist uses four to six dental implants to attach an arch of restoring teeth to the jaw.
Tooth Loss Prevention
You can help lower your risks for tooth loss by seeing your Elk Grove or Lodi dentist regularly for checkups and teeth cleanings. It’s also important to brush and floss twice daily or after eating.
Sometimes, tooth loss may be related to certain medications or dry mouth. If you experience dry mouth, talk to your dentist. We can offer tips and solutions to help lower your risks of tooth loss.
Schedule Your Tooth Replacement Consultation Today
You’ll learn more about the various options at your consultation, including cost and upkeep. Your dentist will also determine your candidacy for treatment.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment or if you have any questions. If you’re uninsured, ask about our exclusive in-office plan and how it can save you money on future dental care.
We are happy to offer easy financing through Lending Club and CareCredit. A helpful team member can walk you through the online application process.