Tooth Replacement Options For A Complete Smile
If you’re missing a tooth—or several—it’s easy to tell yourself it’s no big deal. Maybe it’s in the back, or you’ve simply gotten used to chewing around it. But even one missing tooth can impact far more than your appearance. At Parker & Pennington Dentistry in Jacksonville Beach, Florida, we help patients restore not just their smiles, but their health and confidence, too.
Why Replacing a Missing Tooth Matters
It’s tempting to overlook a gap in your smile—especially if it’s not visible. But your mouth is designed to function as a complete system. When one piece is missing, a ripple effect can begin. Over time, you may experience:
- Teeth shifting out of place. Neighboring teeth naturally drift toward the space, throwing off your bite and making it harder to keep your smile clean.
- Bone loss in the jaw. Without stimulation from a tooth root, the jawbone begins to shrink. This can lead to facial changes and contribute to premature aging.
- Difficulty chewing. Hard or fibrous foods may become tough to manage, causing you to avoid the healthy options you once enjoyed.
- Loss of confidence. Whether it’s smiling in photos or speaking in public, a missing tooth can leave you feeling self-conscious.
Your Tooth Replacement Options
At Parker & Pennington Dentistry, we offer several advanced solutions to restore your smile and protect your oral health, including:
Dental Implants
Implants are a durable, natural-looking solution that replaces both the tooth and its root. They preserve your jawbone and let you chew, speak, and smile with ease. Implants are especially beneficial if you’re only missing one or two teeth.
Dental Bridges
As the name suggests, a bridge fills the gap left by one or more missing teeth. A bridge is anchored to neighboring teeth or implants to offer a fixed and functional option that looks just like your natural smile.
Dentures and Partials
If you’re missing several teeth, today’s dentures are more comfortable and lifelike than ever. If you’re looking for added security, an implant-supported denture or partial provides even greater stability and chewing power.
Teeth-in-a-Day
Teeth-in-a-Day replaces a full arch of teeth using just four implants placed at precise angles in the jaw. We attach a set of new teeth the same day, so you leave your appointment with a complete smile. This approach often avoids the need for bone grafting and offers a quicker, more affordable path to stable, long-term results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re exploring options for missing teeth, call our dental office located in Jacksonville Beach, FL to schedule a consultation. We’ll walk you through your choices and help you find the right solution for your smile.