Why Replace Missing Teeth?
Bellevue and Seattle, Washington
Missing teeth can be both an aesthetic and a functional issue. When you are missing noticeable teeth, you may find yourself hiding your smile in business and social interactions. Some people may even find missing teeth make them feel less appealing in intimate encounters. While replacing missing teeth can have a profound impact on your self-esteem, they can also provide serious dental issues that, if left untreated, can eventually alter the shape of your entire jaw.
The Problem of Missing Teeth
Your mouth is an amazing thing. Every tooth provides a specific function, sometimes as simple as keeping your other teeth in place. Your teeth work together to provide proper tension and strength for tasks like chewing and talking. When one tooth is missing, adjacent teeth take on its function by necessity. This results in undue stress on surrounding teeth, which can lead to chips, broken teeth, and even speech impediments.
In addition, your teeth are responsible for maintaining the shape of your jaw. When even one tooth is missing, surrounding teeth begin to slide into its place. Over time, this can cause your jaw to shrink and result in an altering of your facial appearance. Even when jaw shrinkage does not occur, shifting teeth can lead to misalignment and compromised structural integrity within your jaw.
Solutions for Missing Teeth
Fortunately, the Seattle area general and implant dentists at Cooleysmiles offer several options for replacing missing teeth and protecting the structure of your jaw. These options include:
- Dental bridges – An artificial tooth secured into place with crowns on adjacent natural teeth
- Dental implants – Artificial tooth roots secured into your jaw that hold an artificial tooth into place
Depending on the number of teeth you are missing and the location of those teeth, our Bellevue dentists can customize a tooth replacement option that will best restore beauty and function to your smile.
If you are living with the embarrassment and diminished capacity of missing teeth in or around Seattle, Washington, please contact the Seattle and Bellevue area dentists at Cooleysmiles to schedule an initial consultation today.