Tooth Replacement in Portland OR

In the past, losing a tooth left you with few options for their replacement. While permanent teeth are meant for a lifetime of function, it doesn't always turn out that way. They may be lost due to deep cavities, gum diseases, or an accident. And the most significant disadvantage of a missing tooth is that it may disrupt the entire functioning of eating and chewing. As teeth slowly start to shift and migrate into the empty spaces of the missing teeth, it will lead to misalignments and extra pressure on the existing teeth.

We understand that it's not always easy for you to sort through the various replacement options. But we could help develop solutions and offer various alternatives for your tooth replacements at East Burn Dentistry and Implants.

What Happens When a Missing Tooth Is Not Replaced?

Some people put off replacing a tooth extracted or lost due to trauma, but this is a bad idea. Here's why:

• Teeth need the support of adjacent teeth; otherwise, they tend to shift. The adjacent teeth start to move and fill the gap of the missing tooth, causing misalignment in the mouth. As a result, problems arise with your alignment and bite.
• Chewing and biting need a great deal of energy on the part of the tooth. This energy is passed on through the tooth down into the jawbone, stimulating the jawbone to regenerate new bone mass continuously. This leads to a healthy, strong jawbone.
• Missing teeth can be embarrassing aesthetically and can also create speech problems. The missing molars can develop problems with chewing, making the person avoid certain foods, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies.

What Are the Different Tooth Replacement Options?

When it's time to replace missing teeth, there are several options available for you.

• Dental Implants

Dental implants often give you the best chance to enjoy normal chewing and a full smile. Substituting missing teeth with implants brings your mouth back to full function and well-being. Tooth-colored porcelain crowns replicate natural teeth perfectly, whether it's one or more absent teeth. Dental implants can support single crowns or complex bridges.

• Full or Partial Dentures

For some patients, a removable appliance is the best way to replace missing teeth. Be it a partial denture or a full denture, a denture could restore your mouth to more optimal function and appearance. Dental implants are often combined with dentures for unmatched stability and confidence.

• Dental Bridges

Dental bridges have usually been a preferred alternative for replacing missing teeth. More choices are now available to bridge gaps in your smile with the extensive use of dental implants. Aesthetic, customized, porcelain crowns fixed up into a bridge can be designed to eliminate spaces of every size.

If you are keen on learning more about tooth replacement options and how our dentist, Dr. Daniel Lee, can transform your smile, don't hesitate to call dentist in Portland OR at 503 233-4871!