A typical adult has 32 teeth, but by age 50, the average American will have lost 12 of their permanent teeth to decay, gum disease, or injury. Beyond that, 26% of adults between the ages of 65 to 74 have lost all of their teeth. Not only do missing teeth affect the appearance of your smile, but they may also alter your bite, weaken your jawbone, and affect the way you eat and speak. Tooth loss can also affect your overall health and has been linked to diabetes, heart disease, and increased risk for other diseases—so the question then becomes, “what can I do if I’m missing teeth?”
With today’s medical advancements, there are a variety of options available to patients who are missing one or more teeth. At Academy Dental Care in Albuquerque, we’re dedicated to utilizing the latest developments and innovations within the dental industry. By acquiring the newest procedures and techniques, we’re able to help our patients restore the look and functionality of their smile through advanced cosmetic dentistry procedures!
Options to Replace Missing Teeth
At Academy Dental Care, our dentists specialize in cosmetic dentistry and perform a variety of procedures to help improve your smile! Upon visiting with one of our specialists, we’ll listen to what you want to achieve with your smile and oral health, then create a customized plan to help you attain the smile of your dreams!
The following options are available to replace a missing tooth or teeth:
Implants
A dental implant is an artificial tooth that does not rely on surrounding teeth for support. Acting as the root of the tooth is a titanium screw that is surgically anchored to the jaw. A post is placed on top of the implant and then a crown, which is matched to the surrounding teeth. Unlike bridges or partials, dental implants are permanent and stable, making them a favored choice among patients for an everlasting, beautiful smile! Bridges
Bridges are made up of two or more crowns composed of porcelain. They are an easy way to seamlessly replace missing teeth and improve your smile. Bridges are bonded to the remaining teeth for support and are intended to literally bridge the gap created by one or more missing teeth. These artificial teeth are crafted to match your unique bite, resulting in a smile that looks and feels natural!
Dentures
Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace missing teeth and make it easier to eat and speak. Available in partial or full sets, they’re the ideal choice for those who have lost many or all of their teeth. Beyond restoring a smile and its functionality, dentures also help the appearance of your face and profile by filling out and lifting sagging facial muscles. Dentures are made to resemble natural teeth, resulting in a complete, dazzling smile!
Albuquerque Cosmetic Dentistry Specialists
At Academy Dental Care, we’re passionate about creating life-changing smiles for patients by providing personalized cosmetic dental care. With access to the latest tools and procedures, we’re able to restore both function and aesthetics to missing teeth, and furthermore, improve the lives of our amazing patients!
If you’re ready to smile with confidence again, trust Academy Dental Care in Albuquerque! Call us today at (505) 828-2020 to schedule a consultation!