Missing Teeth? Restore Your Smile at Nashua Family Dental

If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re not alone. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and more than 35 million Americans have no teeth at all. Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic issue—they can have serious consequences for your oral health and overall well-being. At Nashua Family Dental, we offer a range of tooth replacement options to restore your smile and prevent further complications.

Why Replace Missing Teeth?

Replacing missing teeth is important for several reasons:

1. Tooth Alignment
   When a tooth is lost, neighboring teeth may begin to shift into the empty space, disrupting your bite alignment. Over time, this can lead to difficulty chewing, speaking, and even increased wear on remaining teeth.

2. Healthier Gums
   Teeth act as a protective barrier for your gums. When a tooth is missing, it exposes more of the gums, making them vulnerable to bacteria that can cause gum disease.

3. Protection of Bone
   Your teeth play a crucial role in maintaining the structure of your jawbone. Without the stimulation from a tooth root, the bone in that area begins to deteriorate. This bone loss can lead to changes in your facial appearance, such as a sunken jawline.

Tooth Replacement Options at Nashua Family Dental

Dr. Keshian and our team offer several options to restore your smile, helping you achieve a functional, natural-looking result:

1. Dental Implants
   Dental implants are a permanent solution to missing teeth. Surgically placed into the jawbone, implants act as a replacement for both the root and crown of the tooth. They offer a natural look and feel, and because they fuse with the bone, they help maintain jaw structure and prevent further bone loss. With a success rate of over 95%, dental implants are a long-term solution that requires minimal maintenance.

2. Dental Bridges
   A dental bridge is used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring the restoration to the neighboring teeth or dental implants. Bridges can be removable or fixed, providing a reliable solution for restoring function and aesthetics.

3. Dentures
   Dentures have come a long way in terms of comfort and appearance. We offer both full and partial dentures. Full dentures replace all of the teeth in the upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. Dentures can be either removable or fixed using dental implants for added stability.

Common Questions About Missing Teeth

• Can missing teeth cause health problems?
  Yes, missing teeth can lead to cavities, teeth shifting, gum disease, and even serious health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. Replacing missing teeth helps prevent these risks.

• Can a missing tooth affect other teeth?
  Yes, neighboring teeth may shift into the space left by a missing tooth, leading to misalignment, decay, and further tooth loss.

• Can missing teeth change the shape of your face?
  Missing teeth can lead to bone loss, which in turn affects facial structure. Over time, this can cause a sunken appearance and misaligned bite.

• Can missing teeth cause breathing problems?
  Missing teeth can lead to changes in the airway, potentially causing snoring or other breathing issues, particularly after a traumatic event or surgery.

• Can missing teeth cause neck pain?
  Yes, missing teeth can disrupt your bite, leading to strain on your neck and jaw muscles, as well as headaches and tooth decay.

• Can missing teeth cause wrinkles?
  Missing teeth contribute to bone loss, which can cause wrinkles around the mouth and cheeks, making you appear older.

• What happens to your jaw when you lose teeth?
  When teeth are lost, the bone in the affected area begins to resorb, or break down, because it no longer receives the stimulation it needs. This can lead to further tooth loss and changes in facial appearance.

Schedule Your Tooth Replacement Consultation Today

If you’re missing teeth and want to restore your smile, Nashua Family Dental is here to help. Whether you’re interested in dental implants, bridges, or dentures, we will work with you to find the best solution for your needs. Call us at (603) 881-4022 or request an appointment online to get started on your journey to a healthier, more confident smile.