Tooth Replacement
San Diego, CA
 Missing teeth can do more than leave a gap in your smile - they can affect how you eat, speak, and feel about yourself. Whether you've lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or gum disease, it's important to understand that this is more than just a cosmetic concern. Missing teeth can lead to changes in your bite, cause neighboring teeth to shift, and even result in bone loss in the jaw over time.
Today's tooth replacement options are designed to look natural, feel comfortable, and last for years. If you're dealing with tooth loss, or think you might be at risk, knowing your options is the first step toward protecting your health and reclaiming your confidence. At Enamel General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we specialize in both general and cosmetic dentistry, helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles they can feel proud of.
Why Do We Lose Teeth?
Tooth loss is more common than many people think. Even with modern advancements in dental care, millions of Americans lose teeth every year for a variety of reasons.
Lack of Oral Hygiene
When brushing and flossing aren't part of your daily routine, plaque and bacteria begin to accumulate. Over time, this leads to cavities, enamel erosion, and gum inflammation. Without proper care, these small issues can escalate into more serious problems, including tooth loss. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using fluoride toothpaste are simple yet powerful tools for keeping your teeth intact.
Failing to See the Dentist Regularly
Regular dental visits are essential for maintaining good oral health. These checkups allow your dentist to catch issues early, before they become more serious. Even if your teeth feel fine, there may be underlying problems only a professional can detect. Skipping cleanings and exams increases your risk of developing advanced decay, infections, and gum disease, all of which can lead to tooth loss if left untreated.
Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, starts silently but can quickly escalate. It begins with gingivitis, which causes red, swollen, or bleeding gums. If left untreated, it can progress into periodontitis, which damages the structures that support your teeth—including the bone. Advanced gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Fortunately, it can often be managed or reversed with early treatment and consistent oral care.
Tooth Trauma
Accidents happen, and sometimes they affect your smile. A fall, car accident, or sports injury can knock out or damage a tooth beyond repair. Even biting down on something hard, like ice or a popcorn kernel, can lead to cracks or fractures that may require extraction. Wearing a mouthguard during contact sports and being cautious when eating hard foods can help protect your teeth from trauma.
Teeth Grinding
Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, often occurs at night and may go unnoticed until damage has already been done. Chronic teeth grinding places excess pressure on your teeth, leading to wear, cracks, and in severe cases, tooth loosening or loss. If you're experiencing jaw pain, headaches, or unusual tooth wear, we may recommend a custom nightguard to protect your teeth while you sleep.
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can increase your risk of tooth loss. For example, diabetes can impair blood flow to the gums and reduce your ability to fight infections, making it easier for gum disease to develop. Osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, can affect the jawbone and compromise the support structure for your teeth. It's important to let us know about your medical history so we can tailor your dental care accordingly.
Tooth Replacement Options
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth can shift out of place, your bite can become misaligned, and the jawbone can begin to shrink. That's why replacing missing teeth isn't just about aesthetics, it's a key part of maintaining a healthy, functional mouth.
Fortunately, there are several effective and reliable options for replacing missing teeth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth in a row. It works by anchoring an artificial tooth (or several teeth) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. These neighboring teeth are fitted with crowns to support the bridge.
Why patients choose dental bridges:
| • |
Fixed in place (non-removable)
|
| • |
Quick treatment timeline
|
| • |
Restores normal chewing and speaking |
Dental bridges offer a natural appearance and can last many years with proper care. They're a great option for patients looking for a solution that doesn't involve surgery.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that restore both function and appearance. Depending on how many teeth you're missing, your dentist may recommend full or partial dentures.
Benefits of dentures include:
| • |
Affordable and accessible
|
| • |
Improved ability to chew and speak
|
| • |
Customized for a comfortable fit |
Modern dentures are lighter and more natural-looking than ever before. They're especially helpful for patients who are missing several teeth or are not candidates for implant surgery.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are considered to be the most permanent and longest lasting choice when it comes to tooth replacement. A titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the bone to provide a secure foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture.
Why dental implants stand out:
| • |
Feels and functions like a real tooth
|
| • |
Prevents bone loss in the jaw
|
| • |
Does not affect neighboring teeth |
Dental implants are a long-term investment in your smile. Dental implants come in various forms including mini dental implants, single tooth implants, multiple tooth implants, and even zygomatic implants which attach to your cheekbone. With proper care, dental implants can last decades and help maintain your overall oral health.
Full Mouth Implants
When many or all teeth are missing, full mouth implants offer a life-changing solution. Using a small number of implants (typically four to six per arch), your dentist can secure a full set of prosthetic teeth in place.
Advantages of full mouth implants:
| • |
Permanent and non-removable
|
| • |
Strong, stable chewing ability
|
| • |
Natural-looking and feeling |
This option is ideal for patients looking to move away from traditional dentures and enjoy a more stable, confident smile.
Regain Your Smile and Oral Health
You don't have to live with missing teeth. Whether you've lost one tooth or several, the right tooth replacement solution can help you chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence again. At Enamel General and Cosmetic Dentistry, we're committed to helping you find the best path forward - whether that's a dental bridge, dentures, implants, or a full arch restoration. We take the time to understand your needs, answer your questions, and create a customized treatment plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. Contact us today at 949-991-2499 to schedule a consultation. |
