People who experience tooth loss may wonder about the best course of action to take. Should they simply leave their mouth as it is, or should they opt for a treatment such as dental implants in Herefordshire? It is not a good idea to leave the gap as it is, as this will have a range of effects. Firstly, the person’s appearance and therefore self-confidence will be eroded; and this can significantly impact on their mental wellbeing.
Secondly, the alignment of the remaining teeth will be negatively affected by the gap from a missing tooth or teeth. They can shift in position, which will alter the whole mouth. This can change the structure of a person’s face, causing them to look much older than they really are. This shift can also lead to a decline in the functionality of the teeth, meaning that the person can have difficulty with chewing and eating. The health and function of the jawbone can also decline as a result of this change.
Fixed bridge
The fixed bridge is also known as a fixed partial denture. Before the advent of dental implants, this was an option often chosen by patients suffering from a missing tooth or teeth. This involves the dentist applying a crown to the two teeth on either side of a missing tooth; both of which support a false tooth in the middle. This procedure can work well as it allows for the patient to resume normal functionality of the teeth, and it can be imperceptible to others that there was a missing tooth in the first place.
However, the healthy teeth on either side of the gap onto which the crowns are placed must be shaped into position in order to accommodate those. This can cause some damage to those teeth, which is not ideal for the patient. In addition, the jawbone directly under the false tooth can become weakened over time; as it is not supported by a root. This kind of treatment can also result in an increased likelihood of decay in the teeth In the long term.
Removable partial denture
This is a false tooth that resides within plastic that replaces part of the gum. It is attached to the natural teeth using metal hooks and is taken out to be cleaned. Although this can be a relatively easy option, it carries with it an increased risk of gum disease and the partial denture can become uncomfortable and ill-fitting over time.
Dental implant
Generally considered the best possible option for a missing tooth or teeth, the dental implant utilises modern technology to get great results for the patient. The implant is a replacement for the root of the tooth and is composed of titanium. This artificial root is placed directly into the jawbone and is used to support a new tooth. It looks natural and usually lasts for many years, so it is an option that the patient can rely on.
The implant helps maintain the health of the jawbone and does not affect the health of the teeth surrounding it. In addition, there is significantly less risk of gum disease compared to other methods of tooth replacement.
