Missing teeth affect so many aspects of your life that you might not even be aware of them all. Of course, the first thing that you — like many people — think about is how you look with your teeth missing. This often depends on which particular tooth or teeth are missing as those toward the back of your mouth are often not as noticeable as those in the front.

Other Negative Effects of Missing Teeth

While your smile is probably the first thing you think about if you are missing teeth, there are other negative effects as well. Depending on where in your mouth the teeth are missing, eventually, their loss could result in your face becoming distorted or sagging because the support of your bony facial structures has changed.

Also, missing teeth can affect the way you eat. Without all your teeth in place, you could have difficulty chewing your food thoroughly. This could increase your chances of choking. It could also make it more difficult for your body to digest your food and extract the necessary nutrients from it.

Notable Dental Appliances for Missing Teeth

Fortunately, with the technology available today, dentists can offer their patients several notable dental appliances that are designed to help them look and feel their best. The following are three of the possible solutions:

1. Dentures

Dentures are often the first thing that you think of to address missing teeth. These removable dental appliances are often chosen because they provide a versatile method of replacing missing teeth that is not permanent. Available as partial and full dentures, they should be removed and cleaned according to your dentist’s instructions daily. While most dentures are made of a combination of metal brackets and a hard, resin material, flexible dentures might also be an option. These contain a flexible base that allows for a more realistic feel and movement of your mouth.

2. Dental Bridge

A dental bridge is a more permanent solution to the problem of missing teeth. In most cases, the dentist will reduce the teeth on either side of the missing tooth to create a more uniform surface. These are then covered with crowns that have been fused together before they are placed over the reduced teeth. A false crown that is designed to replace the missing tooth is also included in the bridge.

3. Snap-on Smile

A Snap-on Smile provides you with many of the same benefits as dentures with some unique additions. Easy to care for and quick to make, a Snap-on Smile dental appliance is a painless and affordable solution that can address many other problems as well. For example, if your teeth are stained, crooked or otherwise imperfect, a Snap-on Smile can address these issues while still providing a replacement for your missing teeth.

Which dental appliance is the right one for your missing teeth? Your dentist is the only one who can determine this. Contact your dental team today for a thorough evaluation and discover a smile you can be proud of.

Your body’s joints are aligned in a certain way to facilitate ease of movement and functionality. Your jaw is a large joint that allows you to bite, chew, swallow, yawn, speak, shout, smile, sing and much more. For those who suffer from jaw alignment issues, these functions are hindered, and accompanying pain may be present.

The Dangers of Jaw Misalignment

If you have jaw misalignment, it’s important that you have it professionally treated as soon as possible. Dupont Dental Associates in Washington can help with diagnosing and treating jaw misalignment. The dangers of not seeking treatment for jaw misalignment include worsening conditions that can lead to the necessity for more serious, invasive treatments, including surgery. Other potential ramifications of not getting treatment for jaw misalignment is teeth loss, gum disease, incorrect health diagnosis, and others. Following is information about identifying jaw misalignment issues, and available treatment with a non-invasive dental appliance for jaw alignment.

How to Tell if You Have Jaw Alignment Issues

Jaw misalignment is more common than you think, but the symptoms may not always be obvious. Here are some of the signs to look out for:

• Teeth do not line up properly
• Teeth have shifted
• Pain or tenderness when biting or chewing
• Inability to open mouth wide
• Pain or tenderness when speaking for long periods of time
• Slurred or hindered speech
• Noticeable jaw discomfort when sleeping in certain positions
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Frequent, unexplained headaches ranging from mild to severe
• Neck and base of the skull pain or tenderness
• Decrease in range of head turning from side to side or up and down

Non-Invasive Treatment Option for Jaw Alignment issues

Don’t hesitate to contact Dupont Dental if you suspect that you may have a jaw alignment issues. If detected early enough, your treatment may consist of a simple, non-invasive treatment option for jaw alignment issues. This dental appliance is a specially-fitted device that subtly and gently helps to make minor adjustments in the way your jaw lines up. The device can be worn in the privacy of your home and is completely removable and insertable by you without any assistance. Over time, this dental appliance for jaw alignment can help to bring your jaw back into alignment and alleviate many or all of the above symptoms you may have been experiencing due to your jaw misalignment issues.

The Benefits of a Dental Appliance for Jaw Alignment Issues

The benefits of this non-invasive dental appliance for jaw misalignment include a restoration of your biting and chewing abilities. It’s likely that you may be able to return to your normal culinary habits after use of the dental appliance. Your teeth and gums will be in better shape because you’ll be able to care for them without discomfort. Once the jaw alignment is properly treated by Dupont Dental, any headaches caused by the jaw alignment issue will be mitigated or disappear entirely. Essentially, you’ll have your life back.

While noticing something at home is helpful, it’s crucial to get a professional diagnosis and proper treatment. If you notice any or all of the signs of a misaligned jaw, make an appointment right away with Dupont Dental in Washington.