New Patients:
(858) 358-5801
Existing Patients:
(858) 333-1101
27
Nov
Missing a Front Tooth? Here Are the Best Dental Options to Restore Your Smile
A number of things can cause people to lose a front tooth, from accidents and injuries to decay and gum disease. When you’re missing a front tooth, it’s difficult not to be self-conscious. After all, your smile is one of the first things people notice about you, and nothing stands out more than a missing front tooth. What are your options for replacing a missing front tooth? Let’s answer your most commonly asked questions.
How Do Dentists Replace a Missing Front Tooth?
There are several treatments dentists can use to replace a missing front tooth. Some options include:
- Dental implants
- Dental bridges
- Resin-bonded bridges
Can You Replace One Missing Front Tooth?
One missing front tooth can easily be replaced using a dental implant or dental bridge. An implant also fuses with the bone in the jaw, which helps prevent bone loss.
Is It OK to Not Replace a Missing Front Tooth?
Certainly, you can live without a tooth. However, it’s best to replace the tooth for a number of reasons. First, a missing front tooth affects your smile and self-confidence. This can have a huge impact on how you interact with other people, as well as your career. Also, replacing the missing tooth will keep your jawbone strong and improve your ability to chew and speak. Equally concerning, adjacent teeth are more at risk of developing cavities if there is a missing tooth.
How Quickly Can a Dentist Replace a Front Tooth?
The tooth replacement process can take three to six months, depending on which option you and your dentist decide on. The dental implant process takes longer because the titanium screw needs time to fuse with the jawbone. However, dental bridges can be made in one or two weeks. A bridge is your best option if you want to replace a tooth quickly.
Call Our Office for More Information
New Patients: (858) 358-5801 | Existing Patients: (858) 333-1101 Request an Appointment
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are made with a titanium screw that’s directly implanted into your jawbone. Once the screw has fused with the bone, an abutment and porcelain crown are placed atop the screw. A dental implant functions almost exactly like your natural tooth. Implants can be used to support other prosthetic teeth, including dental bridges.
How Long Do Dental Implants Last?
With proper care, dental implants can last you a lifetime. Dental implants are extremely durable, and many patients never have to replace them. You may need adjustments at some point, but it’s rare to need to have the entire implant replaced.
What Is a Dental Bridge?
A traditional dental bridge is made of an artificial tooth called a pontic. The pontic is held in place with two retaining crowns attached to the teeth on either side of the missing tooth.
Options for Missing Front Teeth San Diego, CA
If you need to replace a missing front tooth, Dr. Sanjay Dhir and the team at Dhir Dentistry in San Diego, California, are here to help you explore your options. Give us a call today at (858) 358-5801, or use our online form to request an appointment.
