Tooth loss is a very serious medical issue that impacts countless millions throughout the world. Even those that adhere to a very strict regime of oral hygiene habits and regular trips to the dentist may find themselves losing one or more teeth throughout their lifetime. With modern studies showing that a vast majority of individual's will lose at least one of their permanent teeth in their lifetime, many are now asking about false teeth, their uses, and who may be qualified for these dental appliances.
Tooth loss will most commonly take place because of serious damage to the teeth or gums, often the result of disease or decay. Those that do not correctly clean their teeth at home and have their teeth professionally cleaned twice a year risk having plaque and tartar build up on their teeth and gums. When food comes into contact with tartar and calculus, it will produce bacteria and toxins that will go deep into the teeth and gums, slowly forcing the teeth to pull away from the jaw in which they are anchored. Tooth loss may also occur as a result of trauma to the face or irreversible damage to the pulp or roots.
It is important for all those that are missing one or more teeth to understand just how essential it is to have this condition treated right away. Those that do not have false teeth placed in their mouth risk facial sagging. This is when the soft tissue and the natural teeth surrounding the area left by missing teeth start to sag inwards, likely causing serious damage. There is also an increased risk of having pockets of bacteria build up on the exposed gums.
In order to restore the appearance and the function of a patient's smile, false teeth will be the most common solution. This is a catchall term that refers to any number of dental appliances including bridges, dentures, and implants when used in combination with dental crowns. Those that are missing one or more teeth in a room will have three basic alternatives to restore their smile.
Dental bridges are a series of false teeth that literally "bridge" the gap between the missing teeth. They are often made of porcelain and can be attached be either cementing them to the natural teeth or connecting them to dental implants. For a single missing tooth, implants can be used with dental crowns to restore the area. Patients that are missing more than a series of teeth may need the use of dentures. Full and partial dentures are larger appliances that can be used to transform a smile. Much like bridges, they can either be attached by cementing them to the existing teeth, with the use of mild adhesives, or by being attached to dental implants.
United Dental Care offers different options for replacing lost teeth, like full dentures. These false teeth are a great choices for individuals who have lost their teeth due to trauma or diseases.