Are you missing a tooth? It is a common issue that affects many people. Losing a tooth can impact your regular oral functions adversely, including your self-confidence. Fortunately for many people, there’s a variety of solutions that could resolve the effects of having a missing tooth. Here at El Paso Viva Dental in El Paso, TX, our dentist, Dr. Steve Yi, offers dental implants among other tooth restoration options to address tooth loss.

How Tooth Loss Can Affect Your Life

Missing one or multiple teeth could affect you in various ways. Not only will it affect the quality of your smile and confidence but it can likewise lead to serious dental complications that will require more extensive treatments. So what are these negative effects?

Bone Loss

To maintain the health and density of our jawbone, it must be stimulated by our teeth frequently. As you use your teeth, the jawbone is stimulated to reshape and restore itself constantly. If you lose some of your teeth, however, the density of your jawbone can decrease up to 25 % in just the first year.

Change in Position

The loss of a tooth could lead to a shift in your mouth, for the teeth that are left in your mouth make up for the loss and try to lessen the gap. Eventually, this causes further oral complications since the larger gap allows food to get trapped in between the teeth easily--leading to tooth decay, and impacting your normal oral functions.

Solutions to Tooth Loss

There are different tooth replacement options offered by your dentist in El Paso, TX, including dental implants, so you will need to consult with him to figure out the most appropriate option for you. In general, however, the following are viable solutions that can help you restore your oral functions, as well as the quality of your smile and self-esteem:

• Dental implants: These are created to replace a tooth root, and also to offer a permanent foundation for a replacement tooth. You may want to consider this option if you are missing one tooth, or if you’ve lost several teeth in various areas of your mouth.
• Fixed dental bridge: This tooth replacement option closes off a gap using an artificial tooth or dental prosthetic. This option may suit you if you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth in a single area.
• Dentures: This comprises replacement teeth fastened to a pink base.

For More Details on Your Tooth Replacement Options, Contact Us

Dial (915) 751-1007 to reach El Paso Viva Dental and arrange a consultation with Dr. Steve Yi so you can discuss whether dental implants, bridges, or other restorations can help you.