Missing or lost teeth are common dental concerns for many patients. Dr. Joseph Catanzano is an expert in treating patients with missing teeth in Washington, D.C. Dr. Catanzano ensures that patients receive comfortable dental restorations to bring back full function and beauty to your smile. Learn about your options for replacing missing teeth in our dentist office below.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Several problems can arise when the gaps between teeth are not replaced soon enough, such as:
- Tooth decay
- Crooked teeth
- Bone loss
- Shifting teeth
- Overcrowding
- Speech issues
- Difficulty chewing
- Facial sagging
Call 202-315-2188 if you notice any of these conditions arise. The team at Foxhall Smiles will be happy to help you find the best solution for your dental needs.
Replacing Missing Teeth in Washington D.C.
Dental Implants
Try dental implants in Washington D.C. as a modern dental solution to replacing your lost teeth. Permanent dental implants are secure and durable due to today’s advancements in dentistry. We can also use dental implants in other dental restorations for more secure results. Your dental implants specialist can replace multiple lost teeth or whole arches of missing teeth with this popular treatment.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges can be removable or secured with dental implants to replace multiple missing teeth. Secured dental bridges provide more stability and last longer than removable dental bridges. Natural teeth adjacent to tooth gaps can be shaped to ensure that they can properly support the bridge. Dental bridges usually consist of a metal framework that is covered by porcelain to improve the aesthetics of the patient’s smile.
Dentures and Partials
Implant-secured dentures utilize dentures that are attached to and supported by dental implants. Dental implants consist of titanium posts that are inserted into the jaw bone. After a healing period of three to six months, the implants are covered with dental crowns and the supporting bar that makes up the denture is secured. Patients with multiple consecutive missing teeth can benefit from partial dentures. Partial dentures are made of a metal or acrylic material, with replacement teeth that are attached to a base with a metal framework.
Missing Teeth FAQs
What problems do missing teeth cause?
When a tooth is missing, the neighboring teeth may shift into the empty area. The alignment of your bite is dependent on the health of your teeth. Close proximity between teeth makes it more challenging to floss between them. Also, plaque becomes more difficult to remove, increasing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
Can a missing tooth affect your facial shape?
It is possible for the jawbone to lose its structure and decrease as a result of missing teeth. The jawbone is a key component in facial structure, and any change to it can cause the face to take on a more asymmetrical, sunken look.
What happens if you don’t replace a missing tooth?
When you’re missing a tooth, the teeth around it shift because they have an empty gap to fill. This creates teeth crookedness, which makes teeth harder to clean and more susceptible to decay. Missing teeth may also put you at a higher risk for infection, heart disease, and premature aging.
Do missing teeth cause bone loss?
Yes, missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw. When a tooth is lost, the bone that supported it begins to shrink due to lack of stimulation. This can weaken the jaw and affect neighboring teeth over time.
What happens if teeth are not replaced?
If missing teeth aren’t replaced, it can lead to shifting of surrounding teeth, bone loss, and changes in your bite. Over time, this can affect your ability to chew, speak, and maintain facial structure.
Can missing teeth cause digestive problems?
Missing teeth can definitely impact your digestion since you can’t chew food properly into smaller pieces. When you can’t thoroughly break down your food, your stomach has to work harder. This can lead to digestive issues like acid reflux and poor nutrient absorption.
Request a dental exam and consultation. Call 202-315-2188 or schedule a dental exam with Dr. Catanzano online. Feel free to ask our staff any remaining questions you may have about our restorative options for missing teeth.