Can You Get Veneers With Missing Teeth?
It can be overwhelming when patients begin researching the vast number of tooth-replacement treatment options. Patients often wonder if veneers can be used to replace their missing teeth. Unfortunately, veneers are not a valid tooth-replacement solution. In order to support a dental veneer, there must be a healthy tooth present. Veneers are a cosmetic treatment made of thin porcelain veneer. The veneer is bonded to the front of the tooth. They are most commonly used to cover cosmetic flaws. This may include chips, cracks, stains, discoloration, and other minor issues.
In some cases, a patient chooses not to replace their missing tooth. This is especially common if the missing tooth located in the back of the patient’s mouth and is not visible when they smile. While it may be tempting to dismiss a missing tooth, they should not be ignored. Untreated missing teeth can have a negative impact on a patient’s general and oral health. Missing teeth can allow the other natural teeth to shift out of place and become crooked. In some cases, untreated missing teeth impact the patient’s bite. Misaligned teeth are difficult to clean and therefore are more prone to decay and gum disease. Patients with untreated missing teeth are also at a higher risk for additional tooth loss. When the jaw bone is no longer stimulated, it can begin to resorb. Patients should follow up with their dentist to discuss their options for replacing a missing tooth. This can help prevent serious, long-term issues.
Dental implants are a relatively new tooth-replacement solution and are rapidly gaining popularity. With dental implants, a metal implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone and acts as an artificial root for the missing tooth. This allows the implant to have a strong and secure base, while also stimulating the jawbone. In most cases, implants are created from titanium, a material which is extremely strong and durable.
There are three steps involved in the placement of a dental implant. The first step is the surgical placement of the implant. The implant is placed into the jaw bone where the missing tooth is located. During the healing process, the jawbone fuses to the implant. This provides a strong base for the artificial tooth. The second step of the process includes connecting an abutment to the implant. During the third and final step, the implant crown is attached to the abutment. Dental implants provide patients with an artificial tooth which appears and functions similar to the natural teeth.
Dental implants are considered to be the best tooth-replacement option. Once the mouth has healed following the placement, implants are a permanent option and do not shift or move. Implants not only appear like the natural teeth, but also function like the natural teeth as well. Implants give patients the ability to eat without restrictions, speak normally, and do not require the nightly removal for cleaning. Caring for implants is identical to caring for the natural teeth with twice daily brushing and daily flossing. Patients with implants should continue their routine visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and thorough examination. Implants which are properly cared for can last for decades or more without issues.
Follow up with your dentist to discuss if you are a good candidate for implants. Missing teeth should be taken seriously. Failure to treat them can result in serious, long-term issues.