Even a single missing tooth can spell problems for your smile, making it hard to talk, chew, or grin without wondering what other people around you are thinking. Fortunately, through the art and science of modern dentistry, dentists can restore form and function to your pearly whites. Here are three restoration options for people who are missing teeth. 

3 Ways to Restore Missing Teeth

1. Bridges 

Using small metal brackets or custom frameworks, bridges attach to healthy teeth to support false teeth. Some bridges fit into the mouth like a retainer, replacing teeth in multiple parts of the mouth. Others consist of a porcelain crown with a false tooth attached to the side. Bridges are typically recommended for areas that don’t receive as much bite force, such as the front teeth. 

2. Dentures

Unfortunately, if you are missing several teeth, you may not have enough healthy teeth to support the false teeth you need. In these cases, dentists may recommend dentures, which are made from impressions of the gum tissue. Dentures are fitted over the gums and contain false teeth that can correct the entire smile. 

3. Dental Implants 

While both dentures and bridges are excellent solutions for missing teeth, they aren’t permanent, since jaw tissue tends to resorb when it doesn’t receive deep stimulation. However, dental implants are anchored directly into the jaw tissue, keeping the area healthy. Dental implants are also easy to care for and don’t slip like bridges or dentures can, improving personal confidence.

If your self-confidence or talking ability is being impacted by a missing tooth, turn to Craig A Spletzer, DDS in Fairfield, OH. In addition to working hard to create an incredibly personalized experience for every patient, this experienced dentist is also committed to keeping prices low without compromising the quality of dental care. To learn more about this dentist’s services, visit his website or call (513) 860-1133.