Can You Get Veneers With Missing Teeth?

131 Missing Teeth – Can You Get Veneers With Missing Teeth? (3 of 5)
When patients start researching possible treatments for replacing their missing teeth, it can be overwhelming. A common question is whether veneers can be used as a tooth-replacement option. Veneers are unfortunately not a valid solution for this use. Dental veneer require a healthy tooth for a base. Veneers are used as a cosmetic treatment and created from a thin, porcelain veneer which is bonded to the front side of a tooth. In most cases, a veneer is used to conceal a cosmetic flaw such as cracks, chips, stains, abnormal coloring, or other issues.

Some patients opt out of replacing a missing tooth. This is common when the missing tooth is not visible when smiling or is located in the back of the mouth. It may be tempting to dismiss missing teeth, however, they should be taken seriously and addressed right away. Missing teeth which are not replaced can negatively impact the general and oral health of a patient. The natural teeth can start to shift into the space and become crooked. Untreated missing teeth can even impact a patient’s bite. Misaligned teeth can be challenging to clean and increase a patient risk for gum disease and decay. A patient who does not replace a missing tooth is also at a higher risk for losing additional teeth. Missing teeth fail to stimulate the jawbone which can result in resorption. It is important for patients to meet with their dentist to discuss their tooth-replacement options in order to maintain good oral health and avoid long-term problems.

Dental implants are an exceptional option for replacing missing teeth. Implants are incredibly popular and the preferred solution for most dentists. The implant procedure includes the surgical placement of a metal implant post. This post is placed in 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 simultaneously stimulating the jawbone. An implant is typically created from titanium, an extremely strong and durable material.

The dental implant procedure involves three main steps. The first step of the process includes surgical placement of the actual implant post. The implant is placed directly into the jawbone at the site of the missing tooth. Through the natural healing process, the jawbone will fuse to the implant, creating an incredibly strong base for the prosthetic tooth. In the second step, an abutment is attached to the implant. The third and final step involves connecting the implant crown to the abutment. Dental implants have the appearance and function quite similar to the natural teeth.

Many dental professionals consider dental implants to be the optimal solution in replacing missing teeth. Implants are a permanent solution which securely remain in place and do not move or shift. They give patients the ability to eat the food they like without restricting or modifying their diet. Patients can also speak normally with implants and do not need to remove the implants each night for cleaning as one does with dentures. Patients care for implants just like the natural teeth. This includes brushing at least twice each day and daily flossing. Implant patients should continue regular to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. Implants can last for decades or more when they are properly cared for and the patient maintains good oral health.