Top 4 Options for Replacing Missing Front Teeth
Missing teeth are common among adults in America. In fact, this is one of the most common reasons that people seek dental treatments. This problem can lead to a variety of oral and overall health complications. Missing front teeth can also cause low self-esteem. Therefore, replacement is critical.
A Dental Care offers several options for replacing missing front teeth. Since these treatments are restorative, most dental insurance providers will cover a portion of the treatment. However, if you do not have insurance or if your insurance provider does not cover treatment, we do offer financing options.
In this article, we’ll explore the most common causes for missing front teeth, as well as the top 4 options for repairing and/or replacing missing teeth.
Common Causes For Missing Front Teeth
Missing front teeth can have a major impact on your oral and overall health as well as your confidence. Unfortunately, tooth loss can be a perpetual issue- once it starts, it can continue if not addressed properly. There are several common causes for missing front teeth, including:
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the most common cause of missing teeth. This is preventable with proper oral care habits including brushing and flossing regularly, as well as visiting the dentist every 6 months for an exam and cleaning.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common issue among adults but is treatable and reversible if detected early enough. However, if left untreated, it can lead to receding gums and, ultimately, tooth loss.
Genetics
In some cases, teeth are missing due to genetics. There are three common types of genetically missing teeth: oligodontia, hypodontia, and anodontia. In these conditions, the missing teeth never develop.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene and lack of access to quality dental care can both contribute to missing teeth because they both lead to tooth decay and gum disease. When you take proper care of your teeth, they will potentially last a lifetime.
Trauma
In some cases, missing front teeth are the result of trauma to the face due to a sports injury, automobile accident, or other trauma. In some cases, the natural tooth can be reimplanted, if treated within 30 minutes of the accident. However, many times, it’s best to replace the tooth with an artificial option.
4 Dental Options for Missing Front Teeth
In order to prevent complications from missing teeth, replacement is critical. At A Dental Care, we offer several options for front tooth replacement, including:
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is recommended to repair a tooth when there is a small crack or chip but is otherwise in good condition. If bonding is recommended, the dentist will mold composite resin to cover the crack/chip. Then, the resin will be cured to mimic the hardness of natural enamel. On average, dental bonding lasts about 5 to 10 years and costs about $300 to $600 per tooth.
Front Tooth Implants
When a tooth is missing, dental implants are the best option because they mimic the look, feel, and function of a natural tooth. A dental implant consists of an implant screw that is inserted into the jawbone to mimic the tooth root with a crown attached to mimic the visible portion of the tooth.
Once the implant is placed, the process of osseointegration begins, which involves the jawbone healing around and fusing with the implant. This creates a stable base for the artificial tooth, allowing you to eat and speak naturally. The entire process can take 6 months to a year to complete.
Dental implants cost an average of $5,000 per tooth and can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance.
Fixed Bridge
A fixed bridge is designed to replace several missing teeth in a row. A traditional bridge is attached to adjacent teeth with dental crowns. The natural teeth must be altered to create space for the crown to sit. A fixed dental bridge relies on dental implants, which means the adjacent natural teeth do not need to be altered.
The average cost of a fixed dental bridge is around $5,000 to $15,000. The implants are designed to last a lifetime, whereas the bridge itself may need to be replaced within 20 years.
Removable Partial Dentures
Removable partial dentures are designed to replace several missing teeth. This prosthetic sits on your gums to restore appearance and some functionality. A removable partial must be removed daily before bed for cleaning and to allow the gums to rest. This only restores up to 30% of your natural chewing force. However, it is usually much more affordable.
On average, the cost of a partial denture ranges from around $500 to $1,500 and should last about 10 to 15 years before requiring adjustment or replacement.
Conclusion
If you are missing front teeth or your front teeth are badly damaged/decayed, schedule your consultation with the team at A Dental Care. We offer preventive, restorative, and cosmetic dental solutions for the entire family. We have several offices across the Houston area.
We believe that an informed patient is a happy patient, so we will be happy to work with you to ensure that you understand your options before moving forward with treatment.
