Toothless smiles aren't exactly what most people are going for, so Mapledale Family Dentistry of Woodbridge, VA, provides patients with several treatment options, like dental implants, bridges, and dentures, to address this issue.

What Are the Negative Effects of Tooth Loss?

• Missing teeth lead to more gaps because teeth on the opposite side of missing teeth shift around to try and fill the gap created.
• The gaps created easily trap food, making it easier for food to get stuck, and for bacteria to fester and create cavities.
• Tooth loss also results in reduced bone density, cheek sinkage because of minimal facial support and premature aging.
• Tooth hinders a person's ability to speak properly, and chew and bite into food.

Treatment Options for Tooth Loss

• Dental implants consist of a titanium post that is inserted into your jaws to creates stability and prevent shrinkage of your jawbone. It's advantageous because it restores bite and chewing function, and can last a lifetime.
  
  
• Bridgework fits two crowns over natural teeth and an abutment, artificial tooth, in the center to replace the missing tooth/teeth. This oral appliance restores functions, like speech.
  
  
• Dentures are oral appliances that have a gum-colored base (pinkish) made of plastic resin. They fit over the bone ridge using a suctioning effect against the bone to replace missing teeth.

How to Prevent Tooth Loss

The best way to counter tooth loss is by maintaining a healthy oral regimen. Make sure you visit your Woodbridge dentist twice a year for checkups and professional teeth cleanings. Brush and floss daily, and use fluoride-containing products, mouthwash, and toothpaste, because that protects against cavity development. Avoid eating sugary foods as well, and stop smoking/chewing tobacco to prevent teeth from staining.

Need a Consultation?

If you're interested in learning more about tooth loss, its effects on you, and the different treatment options like dental implants available, then contact the dentists at Mapledale Family Dentistry of Woodbridge, VA, by calling (703) 580-9900 today.