Dentist in San Diego Area Provides Options for Tooth Replacement

Your trusted dentist in San Diego, Dr. Michelle Sandler, is dedicated to preserving your smile and making sure that you are able to chew comfortably and eat without problems. Missing teeth not only make it difficult to eat certain foods, but they can also lead to personal embarrassment in various situations. Among other problems, missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jawbone, which can make it more vulnerable to fractures and can also result sagging in the face and a prematurely aged look. For both cosmetic and health reasons, it is important to replace missing teeth, and there are several tooth replacement options available from your dentist in the Encinitas area.

One well-known method of tooth replacement is a fixed bridge, which is cemented or bonded into place to fill the gap made by one or more missing teeth. Fixed bridges are able to maintain the look and feel of natural teeth, and do not need to be removed to be cleaned. It may, however, be difficult to clean the area under the replacement tooth. While bridges are among the more affordable options for tooth replacement, they can sometimes cause damage to the surrounding natural teeth as a result of the way they are attached.

Another option for tooth replacement is a removable partial denture. These replacements can be taken out of the mouth for cleaning, and are not meant to be left in the mouth at all times. Typically dentures are removed while sleeping, and replaced again in the morning. The replacement teeth are attached to metal framework that is usually covered by gum-colored plastic that serves as a base, and are clamped to the surrounding natural teeth. Removable dentures can be easily cleaned while you are cleaning your natural teeth, but it does take some time to get used to their feel. It may also take some practice to become comfortable with easily removing and replacing them.

Dental implants are an increasingly popular method of tooth replacement. They are the most like regular teeth, since they are actually attached to the jawbone. Being anchored to the bone also means that the replacement teeth do not rely on the support of surrounding natural teeth, thus limiting the amount of damage. Due to the fact that they are so similar to natural teeth, dental implants are as easy to care for as the other teeth in your mouth. Implants are more expensive and they do require surgery and more visits to your dentist in the Del Mar area than the other options.

There are plenty of options to choose from when considering replacing missing teeth, so be sure to consult your trusted dentist. San Diego and Southern California has been relying on the expertise of Solana Family Dental for years, call (858) 345-4497 today to schedule an appointment.