Missing Teeth Frederick, MD

Many patients visit our Frederick dental office to learn more about tooth replacement options. Missing teeth cause more than cosmetic concerns; they also affect the overall functionality of your smile. We encourage patients to seek out tooth replacement options as soon as they have suffered tooth loss in Frederick, MD. Frederick Center for Dentistry can provide high-quality restorative dentistry solutions to replace missing teeth.

Missing teeth treatment in Frederick MD

Why Replace Missing Teeth

You may think that replacing your teeth is only for aesthetic benefits. However, there are many health benefits as well. Replacing your lost teeth will:

  • Restore function: Your teeth are essential for remaining healthy. Without them, you would not be able to bite or chew food. Even just a few teeth missing can cause difficulties with eating certain kinds of foods, especially healthy food. This can lead to potential digestive issues as well.
  • Help preserve the jawbone: Teeth stimulate the jawbone through the teeth roots when you chew food. This stimulation is what helps the bone regenerate and remain healthy. When you lose a tooth, the root also goes missing, and the bone no longer receives that stimulation. This leads to bone deterioration over time. Bone loss is responsible for a change in facial features. When you replace the teeth, it will help preserve your jawbone.
  • Maintain teeth alignment: Every tooth along your arch helps support the other teeth to maintain proper alignment. Gaps from lost teeth allow the adjacent teeth to shift or tilt into the gap because of a lack of support. This can lead to many issues, including a misaligned bite and crooked teeth. Replacing your teeth will prevent unwanted teeth shifts and help maintain a proper bite.
  • Help with speech: Teeth help pronounce certain sounds when you are speaking. Missing teeth can greatly affect your speech and make it difficult to communicate. This can also cause people to feel self-conscious when they speak. Replacing missing teeth will help restore proper speech patterns.
  • Prevent further complications: Missing teeth make the surrounding teeth more vulnerable to damage. Additional stress and pressure can cause more strain on them, leading to complications such as excessive wear and tear, cracks, and chips. Replacing teeth will distribute the force evenly among your teeth and prevent further damage to your remaining teeth.
  • Improve aesthetics and self-confidence: Smiling confidently can be difficult if you’re missing teeth. Missing teeth impact your overall appearance, creating issues with self-esteem and confidence. By restoring your teeth, you will improve your facial aesthetics and self-confidence.

Replacing Missing Teeth in Frederick, MD

We offer several ways to replace your missing teeth. The best option for you will depend on several factors. Factors include the number of missing teeth you have, your jawbone health, your budget, and the state of your oral health. First, meet with your dentist to have them examine your teeth and take x-rays. Depending on your specific situation, we will recommend the best treatment.

Dental Implants

The best solution for missing teeth is dental implants. The procedure involves surgically placing implant fixtures into the jawbone. Implant posts will replace the missing teeth’ roots to stimulate the bone and support the new replacement teeth. A custom-made dental restoration will serve as the replacement tooth or teeth.

If you are missing one tooth, the restoration will be a dental crown. We will use a dental bridge or a partial denture if you are missing several teeth. The dentist will secure a denture to your dental implants to replace an entire row of missing teeth. To learn more about the dental implant surgical procedure at Frederick Center for Dentistry, see Dental implants.

Dental Bridge

A traditional dental bridge can replace one or more missing teeth. This dental restoration type is a fixture with artificial teeth (pontics) and dental crowns. The crowns sit on each end of the bridge and attach to natural teeth adjacent to the gap created by the missing teeth.

Our dentists customize each dental bridge to fit securely in your mouth. The bridge will help restore your chewing ability and prevent teeth from shifting. To learn about our dental bridge treatments, see Dental bridge.

Dentures

Dentures are removable prosthetic devices that replace multiple missing teeth or a full arch of teeth. They consist of a gum-colored base with false teeth. Complete dentures replace a whole row of teeth, while partial dentures only replace several missing teeth on the arch.

Suction, denture adhesives, or clasps attached to remaining teeth usually hold dentures in place. These options offer aesthetic and functional benefits, but they are not as secure as implant-secured dentures. To learn about our denture products in Frederick, see Dentures.

What Causes Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth in adults can be a significant problem, affecting appearance and oral health. Losing teeth as an adult isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it can make eating, speaking, and maintaining good oral hygiene harder. The causes of adult missing teeth can vary, but they all have important consequences. Understanding the reasons behind tooth loss can help you take steps to prevent it and maintain a healthy smile.

1. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)

One of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults is gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Gum disease occurs when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, builds up on the teeth and gums. Over time, the bacteria cause inflammation and infection in the gums, which can destroy the bone that supports your teeth.

In the early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis, your gums may become red, swollen, and bleed easily. If not treated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition where the gums pull away from the teeth, creating infected pockets. As the infection worsens, it destroys the bone and tissues that hold your teeth in place, leading to tooth loss.

2. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is another leading cause of missing teeth in adults. Cavities occur when the enamel, the hard outer layer of your teeth, breaks down due to acids produced by bacteria. These acids form when sugars and starches from food mix with the bacteria in your mouth.

If a cavity is not treated in its early stages, it can spread deeper into the tooth, eventually reaching the pulp, which contains the tooth’s nerves and blood vessels. At this point, the tooth can become infected and may need to be removed to prevent the infection from spreading. In some cases, the decay weakens the tooth so much that it breaks or falls out on its own.

3. Injury or Trauma

Accidents and injuries are also common causes of missing teeth in adults. A blow to the mouth from a fall, sports injury, or car accident can knock out one or more teeth. Even if a tooth isn’t completely knocked out, it can be damaged or cracked and may need to be removed if it cannot be repaired.

Wearing a mouthguard during sports or other activities can help protect your teeth from injury. However, sometimes accidents happen, and when they do, it’s important to see a dentist as soon as possible. Sometimes, a tooth that is knocked out can be reinserted if treated quickly enough.

4. Poor Oral Hygiene

Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to various dental problems, including missing teeth. Failing to brush and floss regularly allows plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, increasing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Over time, these conditions can lead to tooth loss.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is key to preventing missing teeth. Brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing daily helps remove plaque and food particles that contribute to decay and gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for catching problems early and keeping your teeth and gums healthy.

5. Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking and using other tobacco products significantly increase your risk of losing teeth as an adult. Tobacco use weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight infections like gum disease. Smokers are much more likely to develop gum disease, which is a major cause of tooth loss.

Additionally, smoking reduces blood flow to the gums, which can slow down healing and make it more difficult to recover from gum disease or dental procedures. Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco use altogether is one of the best things you can do to protect your teeth and overall health.

6. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can also lead to missing teeth. For example, people with diabetes are more prone to gum disease due to their body’s reduced ability to fight off infections. If diabetes is not well-controlled, it can lead to severe gum disease and tooth loss.

Other conditions that can contribute to missing teeth include osteoporosis, which weakens the bones, including those that support your teeth, and autoimmune diseases like lupus, which can affect the health of your gums and jawbone.

7. Age

As people age, their risk of losing teeth increases. The wear and tear on teeth over the years can weaken them, making them more susceptible to decay and damage. Additionally, older adults are more likely to experience gum recession, where the gums pull away from the teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay and gum disease.

While aging doesn’t directly cause tooth loss, the conditions that come with aging, such as gum disease and tooth decay, can lead to missing teeth. Taking care of your teeth throughout your life can help reduce tooth loss risk as you age.

8. Genetics

In some cases, genetics can play a role in missing teeth. Some people are born with a condition called hypodontia, where certain teeth never develop. Others may have a genetic predisposition to gum disease or other dental issues that increase their risk of losing teeth.

Missing Teeth FAQs

Suffering from missing teeth can be overwhelming. Fortunately, dentists have many treatments you can choose from. Our dental team is here to help you choose the best solution. Please read through our frequently asked questions about missing teeth and let us know if you have any questions.

How will I know which restorative dentistry option is right for me?

During your missing teeth consultation with our dental professionals, we will discuss all your options. We will consider many factors when choosing the right dental restoration for you. Our compassionate team will help you decide what restoration will help you achieve your dental health goals. We will also ensure that treatment closely aligns with your dietary and lifestyle needs.

What problems do missing teeth cause?

Your risk of developing gum disease increases the longer you postpone replacing a missing tooth. Gum disease is the cause of several other significant medical conditions. Conditions include heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer.

Can a missing tooth affect your face shape?

If you have missing teeth, your jawbone can no longer maintain the shape of your face. Your facial structure will eventually collapse since it depends on a strong and healthy jawbone to support your teeth. This will appear when your face appears sunken in your cheeks and jaw.

How long can you go without replacing a missing tooth?

In a perfect world, you would address the issue of missing teeth right away. If you have extractions, you should replace the lost teeth within four to six months. The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the more problems can occur.

Are dental implants a good option for replacing missing teeth?

Dental implants are one of the most popular ways to repair missing teeth. Dental implants are the most dependable tooth replacement option; they feel and look natural. Dental implants are a great option if you require a permanent option to replace one tooth or several teeth.

How long does it take to replace a tooth?

A full tooth replacement may take three to six months to create, depending on the type of replacement you are looking for. Many patients use a removable replacement until the dentist creates a permanent solution.

We offer solutions for missing teeth in Frederick, MD!

Revitalize your smile and replace your missing teeth at Frederick Center for Dentistry. Whether you are missing one tooth or a full arch of teeth, rest assured that our team will treat you with respect.

We will do our best to address your dental concerns in a timely manner and without judgment. Call us today at 301-264-5680 to book your appointment. You can also request an appointment online.