Missing Teeth Solutions

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Dealing with Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth are a common dental concern that can significantly affect your oral health, appearance, and confidence.

Whether caused by injury, tooth decay, gum disease, or other factors, missing teeth can lead to problems such as difficulty chewing, changes in speech, and the shifting of remaining teeth.

Missing teeth can also cause jawbone deterioration over time, leading to further oral health issues. At our Cairns dental clinic, we offer a variety of effective tooth replacement options to restore your smile, function, and confidence.

Consequences of Missing Teeth

Difficulty Chewing and Eating

Missing teeth can make it hard to chew certain foods, affecting your diet and nutrition.

Speech Impairments

Gaps caused by missing teeth can alter the way you speak, causing lisping or slurring.

Shifting Teeth and Misalignment

The gap from a missing tooth can cause neighbouring teeth to shift, leading to misalignment and bite problems.

Bone Loss

The jawbone requires stimulation from teeth to maintain its density. Missing teeth can lead to bone loss over time.

Aesthetic Concerns

Missing teeth can impact your smile and facial structure, leading to reduced self-confidence.

Common Causes of Missing Teeth

Missing teeth can occur for various reasons, ranging from poor oral hygiene to accidental trauma. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right solution.

Tooth Decay

Severe cavities that destroy the tooth structure can result in tooth loss.

Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Advanced gum disease can damage the supporting tissues and bone, leading to tooth loss.

Trauma or Injury

 Accidents or sports injuries can knock out teeth or damage them beyond repair.

Congenital Absence

Some people are born without certain teeth due to genetic factors.

Wear and Tear

Over time, teeth can become worn down, cracked, or fractured, resulting in tooth loss if left untreated.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

When you visit us to address missing teeth, you can expect a personalised and comprehensive approach:

1. Initial Consultation

Our dentist will perform a thorough examination, including X-rays and 3D scans, to assess the condition of your teeth and jawbone.

2. Customised Treatment Plan

We will discuss your tooth replacement options in detail, including the benefits, costs, and expected outcomes for each solution. Together, we will decide on the best treatment that suits your needs and budget.

3. Treatment Process

Depending on the chosen method, your treatment may involve multiple visits. For example, dental implants require a surgical procedure and a healing period before the final restoration is placed.

4. Follow-Up Care

We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and longevity of your tooth replacement. Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your progress.

Treatment Options for Missing Teeth

At our Cairns dental clinic, we provide several effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, helping you regain your smile and oral functionality:

  • Dental Implants: Dental implants are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. They involve placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a sturdy root for a custom-made crown. Implants are durable, look natural, and help prevent bone loss by stimulating the jawbone.
  • Dental Bridges: A dental bridge is a fixed restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth. It involves placing crowns on the adjacent teeth to support a false tooth in between, filling the gap left by the missing tooth.
  • Dentures: Dentures are removable prosthetics that replace multiple missing teeth. Available as partial or full dentures, they can restore your ability to eat and speak properly while improving the aesthetics of your smile.
  • Implant-Supported Dentures: For patients missing multiple teeth, implant-supported dentures offer a more stable solution compared to traditional dentures. They are anchored by dental implants, providing greater comfort and functionality.
  • Dental Crowns: If a tooth is damaged but not entirely missing, a dental crown can restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns are also used in conjunction with dental implants and bridges.

FAQs About Gum Disease

Can I replace a single missing tooth?

Yes, a single missing tooth can be effectively replaced with a dental implant or a dental bridge, both of which provide a long-lasting and natural-looking result.

How long does it take to get a dental implant?

The dental implant process can take several months, including the healing period after the implant is placed. This allows the implant to fuse with the jawbone for a secure fit.

Are dental implants painful?

The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, so you should not feel pain during the surgery. Some discomfort and swelling after the procedure are normal and can be managed with pain relief.

What are the alternatives to dentures?

Alternatives to traditional dentures include dental implants, implant-supported dentures, and dental bridges, which provide more stability and comfort.

Can missing teeth cause jawbone loss?

Yes, missing teeth can lead to jawbone loss over time because the bone lacks stimulation from the tooth root. Dental implants are the only tooth replacement option that can prevent bone loss.

Best Cosmetic dentists in Cairns

Don’t Let Missing Teeth Affect Your Life – Book Your Consultation Today!

Ready to restore your smile and confidence? Schedule an appointment with our experienced dental team in Cairns to explore the best options for replacing missing teeth.

Book online now or call us (07) 4031 2400

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