replace missing teeth – Upper Arlington, OH
Replace Missing Teeth and Make Your Smile Whole Again
A missing tooth means more than just an unattractive gap. It also means that you’ll have a harder time eating and speaking properly, and you could be at risk for several oral health issues (such as a misaligned bite). You need to fill in any gaps in your smile as quickly as possible, and Tzagournis Dental Group of Upper Arlington has several ways you can do just that. Contact our dental office today to learn more about which treatments we offer for replacing missing teeth in Upper Arlington.
Why Choose Tzagournis Dental Group of Upper Arlington for Replacing Missing Teeth?
- In-House Dental Implant Placement
- Long-Lasting Customized Bridges and Dentures
- Vast Experience in Basic and Advanced Restorations
Why Replace a Missing Tooth?
Even one missing tooth can trigger a chain reaction. The adjacent teeth may start to shift into the open space, disrupting your bite and putting stress on the jawbone and gums. Over time, this misalignment can lead to TMJ discomfort, increased plaque buildup, and premature wear on your natural teeth.
More seriously, the area of the jaw that once supported the tooth may begin to deteriorate—a process called bone loss. Without a replacement to stimulate the bone (like a dental implant), this atrophy continues and may affect your facial structure or limit future treatment options.
Replacing a missing tooth is more than a cosmetic choice—it’s a critical step in maintaining your oral health and overall quality of life.
Dentistry That Restores Confidence
At Tzagournis Dental Group, we don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, we take time to understand your needs, goals, and oral health history before recommending a treatment. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, our team will explain each replacement option in detail, highlighting the benefits, process, and long-term expectations. From permanent solutions like dental implants to non-surgical alternatives like bridges or dentures, we’re here to help you make an informed, confident choice.
Fixed Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a traditional restoration used to replace either a single missing tooth or at least two consecutive missing teeth. To place a bridge, two crowns are attached to the teeth next to the gap. These crowns act as the anchors for the false teeth (known as pontics) that fill in the space. Placing a bridge will stop your remaining teeth from drifting out of place, so you’ll still be able to eat and speak comfortably.
Like individual crowns, dental bridges can be custom-designed so that they match your other teeth and look as natural as possible inside your mouth. We make our bridges out of highly durable materials, so you can expect them to last a very long time.
A fixed bridge restores your ability to chew comfortably and prevents adjacent teeth from drifting. While bridges don’t preserve the bone like implants do, they’re a great option for patients looking for fast, effective results with less healing time.
Removable Dentures
Fixed dental bridges are only used to replace one or a few teeth at a time. Removable dentures, on the other hand, can be used to replace an entire arch. They consist of a gum-colored base and lifelike false teeth that closely resemble your natural smile when worn. While full dentures replace all of the teeth in a row, partial dentures are used to fill in multiple gaps between remaining teeth. Both are removable and will need to be taken out at night so that you can give them a thorough cleaning.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are the most comprehensive solution for missing teeth that modern dentistry has to offer. They restore both the crown portion that’s visible above the gums and the roots that extend into the jaw.
A dental implant is a small titanium metal post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone, acting like the root of a natural tooth. After a healing period, a replacement tooth—such as a crown, bridge, or denture—is attached to the abutment portion of the implant.
A fully integrated dental implant has a biting strength and durability far beyond traditional tooth replacements, and they can potentially last a lifetime if you give them the right kind of care. Schedule a dental implant consultation with us today to see if this treatment is your best option for restoring your smile.
Protecting Your Oral Health After Tooth Loss
Replacing a tooth is just one part of the solution. Maintaining good oral hygiene after your restoration is just as important. Whether you’ve received an implant, bridge, or denture, our team will help you care for your restoration and monitor your oral health during routine dental care appointments.
We’ll check for signs of cavities, caries, gum disease, or other issues that could compromise your replacement tooth. We also evaluate your bite and jaw function to make sure everything stays in proper alignment and no strain is being placed on surrounding structures.
Am I a Candidate for Tooth Replacement?
If you’re missing one or more teeth, you’re likely a candidate for tooth replacement, but the right solution will depend on several personal factors. At Tzagournis Dental Group, our team carefully evaluates your needs, goals, and health history to determine the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation.
The most important considerations include:
- Gum health: Healthy gums are essential for supporting any restoration, especially dental implants. We may recommend periodontal therapy before moving forward with treatment if there are signs of gum disease.
- Bone density: Adequate bone in the jaw is necessary for implant placement. If bone loss has already occurred, a grafting procedure may be recommended to rebuild the area before proceeding with the surgical procedure.
- Number of missing teeth: A single missing tooth can be replaced with a dental implant or a fixed bridge, while multiple missing teeth may require partial dentures, full dentures, or implant-supported options.
- Overall health: Certain chronic conditions—like uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders—can impact your body’s ability to heal. Our dentists will review your medical and dental history to make sure treatment is safe and successful.
- Lifestyle and goals: Whether you’re looking for a long-lasting, permanent solution or a non-invasive replacement option, we’ll help guide your decision based on what works best for your lifestyle and timeline.
During your consultation, our team, Dr. George Tzagournis, Dr. Steve Walton, Dr. Daniel Bell, and Dr. Brandon Simon, will walk you through all possible tooth replacement options and help you choose the path that offers the greatest long-term benefit.
Restoring Smiles at Every Stage
Tooth loss can happen at any age, whether due to trauma, tooth decay, untreated gum disease, or chronic conditions that affect oral tissues. At Tzagournis Dental Group, we take a personalized approach to care, considering not just your current needs but also how your treatment fits into your long-term health.
From kids with congenitally missing teeth to seniors adjusting to dentures, our practice supports patients through every phase of tooth replacement. With locations in Upper Arlington and Westerville, it’s easy for your whole family to access expert care under one roof.
What to Expect During the Tooth Replacement Process
Knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and confident about restoring your smile. While the process may vary depending on whether you’re getting an implant, bridge, or denture, we follow a step-by-step approach to ensure clarity and comfort at every stage.
Here’s a general breakdown of how tooth replacement works at our offices:
- Initial Consultation: We’ll begin by taking a full look at your oral health using digital X-rays and an in-depth exam. We’ll also discuss your goals and answer questions about function, appearance, timeline, and budget.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: Based on your needs, we’ll present one or more treatment options, clearly outlining each step, cost, and expected recovery time. If an implant is chosen, we’ll also evaluate your jawbone and gums to ensure they’re ready for a surgical procedure.
- Tooth Preparation (if needed): For a fixed dental bridge, the adjacent teeth may need to be reshaped and fitted with crowns. In the case of dental implants, the implant post will be surgically placed and allowed to integrate with the jawbone over several months.
- Final Placement: Once healing is complete, your custom replacement tooth—such as a crown or denture—will be crafted and securely attached. Every detail is carefully designed to match the color, shape, and contour of your natural teeth.
- Follow-Up Care: After placement, we’ll check your restoration regularly and provide tips to maintain your oral hygiene and keep your restoration in excellent condition.
Patients from Upper Arlington to Westerville, OH, appreciate our transparent communication, advanced technology, and supportive care every step of the way.
Don’t Let a Missing Tooth Hold Back Your Smile
If you’re ready to restore your smile and protect your health, we’re here to help. With multiple tooth replacement options, advanced training, and a warm, patient-centered approach, our team is ready to guide you toward the right solution.
Contact us to schedule an appointment at our Upper Arlington or Westerville dental offices today. Find long-lasting solutions at Tzagournis Dental Group!