Tooth Replacement is Important for Long-term Dental Health

The loss of a tooth, or several teeth can often lead to additional dental problems down the road that may require complex treatment to address, or possibly overall health. Tooth loss effects the surrounding structures, including the jaw bone, and can cause teeth to shift and gums to recede.

Dr. Hess, a Charlotte dentist, offers several options for the replacement of lost teeth and has years of training and experience in restorative dental procedures and implant dentistry. Dr. Hess will create an individualized treatment plan designed to address your dental health issues, personal goals and budget.

Tooth replacement options:

  • Dental implants: considered the “gold standard” for tooth replacement, implants provide excellent results that will look and function like a natural tooth and last a lifetime
  • Dentures: Dr. Hess can fabricate dentures or a bridge that will fit snugly and comfortably, although they typically do not offer the overall benefits of dental implants
  • Implant dentures: also called “all on four”, these are typically used to replace several teeth or all of the teeth, dentures secured by dental implants can provide long term comfort and security, as well as improved function when compared to traditional dentures.

It is important to address lost teeth for overall health: patients who have lost teeth can have problems with speech and diet which can affect social function and quality of life.

All types of tooth replacement will provide the best long term result when monitored by Dr. Hess during routine preventive care visits and good at home oral hygiene. Keeping the teeth strong and healthy can play a role in maintaining overall good health.