April 7, 2005 • ISSUE 24 / VOLUME 1

Replacing missing teeth important to health

Bridges, implants and dentures are options

Other dental problems arise when teeth aren't replaced.

Missing teeth affect more than your smile. Appearance is a big concern, but good dental health and proper mouth functioning are important reasons to replace missing teeth.

"Teeth work together and when a tooth is lost, the nearby teeth may tilt toward the empty space," says Dr. Jonathan C. Okabe, of Okabe Dental Arts. "Teeth that are tilting are harder to clean and decay more easily."

Additionally, Okabe says having teeth on only one side can cause stress in the mouth and jaw joints, leading to more problems.

Through leading-edge dentistry in a friendly atmosphere, Okabe Dental Arts offers several methods of replacing missing teeth.

"The most traditional way is to have a custom made fixed bridge cemented in place," Okabe explains. "The fixed bridge is a natural looking artificial tooth that replaces the lost tooth. The false tooth is attached to crowns on both sides. Bridges don't come off and blend in with the rest of your teeth."

Alternatives to bridges include removable partial dentures or surgical implants.

If you have lost all of your teeth on your upper or lower jaw, dentures may be the answer. Dentures can be either removable or fixed implants.

Okabe says dentures need to be replaced over time because our mouths change as we age.

"If your dentures are 20 years old, it's time to get them replaced before they start causing problems, " suggests Okabe.

Okabe Dental Arts is located at 1221 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 620, at the corner of Pensacola and Kapiolani. For more information, or to make an appointment, call 596-0837.