Tooth loss affects adults all over the world. According to the American College of Prosthodontics, 120 million people in the US are missing at least one tooth, and more than 36 million Americans are missing all of their teeth. As board-certified oral surgeons who specialize in implant-based restorations, Dr. Salin, Dr. Weiner, Dr. Semanoff, and Dr. Nack are board-certified surgeons committed to helping more patients achieve a healthy smile with dental implants.
Tooth loss can occur for many reasons, the most common being facial injury, gum disease, and tooth decay. Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a preventable condition that occurs when plaque and tartar accumulate and cause tooth decay. As the decay worsens, teeth become loose and eventually fall out. You can prevent gum disease by brushing and flossing every day and seeing your dentist twice each year for professional cleanings.
Some people are born without certain teeth. This is a genetic factor that can affect family members for generations. By attending regular dental visits during childhood and adolescence, your dentist can use X-rays to determine if any adult teeth will not develop and begin plans for restoration early. Regardless of the circumstances behind your tooth loss, replacing missing teeth as soon as possible will benefit your health and self-esteem.
If left untreated, missing teeth can cause serious health issues that impact not only your oral health, but your health overall. Here are some reasons why you should replace missing teeth:
There are many types of tooth restoration treatments to choose from. As oral surgeons, we specialize in the surgical placement of dental implants and offer a variety of implant-based solutions to restore your smile.
As the healthiest and most lifelike tooth restoration option, dental implants look, feel and function just like natural teeth. They are the only option that prevents jaw bone loss and will remain in your mouth at all times as a fixed addition to your smile. No special care is necessary—simply brush and floss your implant like you would your natural teeth to keep them clean. Implants are as strong as natural teeth, so there are no dietary restrictions. Every dental implant crown is custom made to blend in with your existing teeth. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or all of your teeth, dental implants can help you achieve your dream smile.
Full or partial dentures are removable appliances that, when worn, restore the appearance of missing teeth. You should replace dentures about every 5–10 years due to wear and tear and have them professionally fitted to prevent oral sores and discomfort. Many patients who wear dentures find them inconvenient to remove during meals and brushing. Dental adhesives may be necessary to hold the dentures in place throughout the day and prevent them from slipping when you speak.
A dental bridge can be fixed or removable. Removable dental bridges function similarly to partial dentures and will be taken out at night, while fixed bridges remain in your mouth at all times. Before placing a bridge, your dentist will grind down existing teeth to hold the appliance. Bridges are effective at preventing other teeth from shifting out of place, but they do not restore full functionality and can be difficult to clean around. Generally, you should replace a dental bridge about every 10–15 years, but some bridges can last up to 30 years.
Innovative Oral Surgery & Dental Implants has three offices in the Greater Philadelphia region to serve our patients. If you have missing teeth, seek a more convenient alternative to dentures, or want to learn about your restorative options, contact our office to learn about dental implants in Feasterville, Newtown, or Abington, PA.
For over 50 years, we have had the privilege of serving our communities with the highest level of oral surgery care. We love what we do, and we look forward to providing you and your loved ones with an outstanding patient experience and incredible results.
