"Well, Mr. Smith, you know I can't pull it without replacing it", says Doctor Gizmo.
"Replace it? Why? I have plenty of other teeth to chew with."
Does this commentary sound familiar? Still not sure why you need all that bridgework?
Teeth have three basic functions:
1) chewing
2) speech
3) facial form and appearance
Maintaining the correct number and position of the teeth is an important aspect of tooth function. Missing teeth can impact the amount of chewing that is being accomplished. Fewer teeth mean less physical digestion is taking place in the mouth. Speech can also be affected by missing teeth-especially the front, or anterior, region. Missing teeth can alter facial form and appearance. Loss of teeth in the molar area can produce a "sunken" or older look to the face and missing front teeth have obvious effects.
When a tooth cannot be saved, even through the miraculous and valiant efforts of your dentist, replacement teeth are often necessary. Many times the recommended treatment is a fixed bridge. A bridge is a permanent structure attached to natural teeth and/or roots made to replace missing teeth. The bridge is generally made from gold, porcelain, or other precious metals. Most dentists today use a combination of these materials to create a natural and realistic prosthesis.
If a tooth is lost and no replacement is made, a myriad of problems can occur. Not only are there the immediate problems of chewing, speech and facial form problems, but the surrounding and opposing teeth will also be jeopardized.
Once a tooth is lost, the teeth around the new space will begin to "drift" into that space. This will cause "gapping" and the teeth tend to lean. This leaning can cause two problems: 1) difficulty in keeping the teeth plaque-free and 2) jamming or hitting into the opposing teeth.
Both the plaque problem and the jamming problem can lead to bone loss, which in turn, can lead to another lost tooth.
Now, as can be expected, bridgework can get expensive. A 3-unit bridge can cost anywhere from $2100.00 to $5500.00 or more. Major dental insurance can cover up to about 50% of the bill, if you are fortunate enough to have it. This is considered an "investment" because not only will you be replacing the missing tooth, but also preventing more complex problems down the "proverbial" road.
So, the next time you want to say, "just pull it, Doc", be sure you think of all the very important places that one little tooth holds!
Go To Page: 1 2
