Can You Get Veneers With Missing Teeth?
The number of solutions available to replace missing teeth can be overwhelming. The surplus of information from a multitude of sources can be confusing and make it difficult to identify if you are a good candidate for various tooth replacement options.
Veneers and Missing Teeth
A common question patients have is whether veneers can replace missing teeth. Veneers unfortunately cannot be used to replace missing teeth. A healthy tooth is needed in order to support dental veneers. They are considered a cosmetic treatment and are comprised of a thin porcelain veneer that bonds to the front surface of the tooth. In many cases, veneers are used to cover cosmetic flaws such as stains, chips, discoloration, cracks and various other issues.
Patients sometimes opt to not replace a missing tooth. When the missing tooth is not visible when smiling or is located in the back of the mouth, this can be especially common. It can be tempting to dismiss a missing tooth when routine activities such as chewing and speech are not impacted. Missing teeth should be taken seriously as they can negatively impact a patient’s oral health, in addition to their overall health. When a missing tooth is not replaced, it can result in a shifting of the other natural teeth. This can cause them to quickly become crooked and even impact the patient’s bite. Teeth which do not align properly, are challenging to clean. Teeth which are not effectively cleaned are more prone to gum disease and decay. Untreated missing teeth can also result in the loss of additional teeth. In addition, the jaw bone can begin to resorb as it is no longer being stimulated. It is important for patients to follow up with their dentist to discuss their tooth-replacement treatment options in order to avoid long-term complications.
One relatively new tooth-replacement option which has quickly gained popularity is dental implants. During the dental implant procedure, the implant is placed into the jaw bone. It serves as the artificial root for the missing tooth. Implants are typically created from titanium which is an incredibly strong and durable material.
Placing a dental implant involves three distinct stages. The first step of the process includes surgically placing the implant directly into the jaw bone at the site of the missing tooth. The jawbone naturally fuses to the implant over time and forms a secure base and foundation for the artificial tooth. During the second step of the process, an abutment is attached to the implant. The final step involves attaching the implant crown to the abutment. The final result is a tooth with the function and appearance quite similar to the natural teeth.
Throughout the dental community, dental implants are the preferred tooth-replacement solution. They are a permanent option which do not shift or move after placement. One major benefit is that implants have the appearance and function most similar to the natural teeth. They allow patients to eat without limitations, speak clearly, and do not require the nuisance of nightly removal for cleaning. Implants are cared for just like the natural teeth and require brushing at least twice each day and flossing daily. Implant patients should continue making regular visits to the dentist for an examination and professional cleaning. When they are properly cared for, implants can last for decades without any issues.
Schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss if you are a good candidate for implants as a tooth-replacement solution. Missing teeth should be taken seriously and not ignored as they can cause serious, long-term issues and complications.