Although the tooth fairy is always a suspect when it comes to missing teeth, a more likely explanation includes more basic issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, trauma such as a car wreck, or even a well-placed punch. No matter how much you brush and floss, your teeth can become worn, chipped, or even broken. Sometimes they have to be pulled because there is not enough tooth left for your dentist to save.
In the old days, you were left with few options. The primary – and usually only – choice was a big dark gap right in the middle of your smile. Today, though, several different options for tooth replacement have been perfected. One of the most recent developments in tooth replacement is dental implants.
Dental implants are stronger than dentures or bridges, and they last longer. They can also help stabilize dentures or bridges – if you already have them – so your gums don’t get irritated. Even if the space where the tooth was lost is small or narrow, a mini implant can be used so your teeth appear straight and normal.
Trouble chewing food can also be another major issue with missing teeth, particularly the back molars. Having to shift certain types of food around in your mouth in order to chew it properly is quite annoying. And many people don’t realize that improperly chewed food can lead to digestive and other medical problems.
If you hate to smile because of spaces in your mouth where teeth used to be, or if you have trouble chewing food because of missing molars, let a professional cosmetic dentist, like those at Bedford Dental Group, help you decide what option would be best for you. Dental implants can be a good substitute for teeth that have gone missing, and they can make your smile look great again.
