Molars are set of teeth that are found in the back of your mouth. They help you chew and grind food. It is common for adults to lose their molars due to decay, gum disease, or other reasons. Losing back teeth can affect your chewing, which can lead to digestive problems. In this blog post, we will the treatment options if you have no molars on one side (edentulous span). Note: edentulous span is a term used to describe the area of your mouth where you have no back teeth (molars) on one side or both sides of your mouth.
Consequences of Losing Molars
Missing molars won’t affect your smile but can affect your overall health. Losing molar teeth can lead to:
- Difficulty chewing food, which can lead to digestive problems.
- Teeth shifting of the adjacent teeth and overeruption of the opposing teeth.
- The loss of jawbone height and width. The jawbone loses 25% of its width during the first year after tooth extraction.
- Temporomandibular joint disorders as a result of the unbalanced bite.
If you have no molars on one side of (edentulous area), visit your dentist to replace them. Ignoring the problem can lead to TMJ disorders and other health problems.
What’re The Treatment Options If You Have No Molars on One Side?
If you have no molars on one side (edentulous span), visit your dentist to know the treatment options and which treatment is suitable for your needs. First, the dentist will examine your mouth and take x-rays. After that, the dentist will discuss your options with you. There are 3 treatment options if you have no molars on one side (edentulous span):
Dental Implants – The Best Option If You Have No Molars on One Side
Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth. Implants are titanium or zirconia posts that are surgically implanted into the jawbone. Then, a bridge or denture is attached to them. Implants are a permanent solution that can last a lifetime.
- Pros of dental implants: they can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene. Also, implants prevent jawbone loss.
- Cons of dental implants: they are an expensive option and require surgery. The healing process (osseointegration) usually takes 3 to 6 months, depending on the density of the bone.
Partial Dentures – The Affordable Option
Partial dentures are a removable set of teeth that fit over your gums. They consist of an acrylic base and a set of artificial teeth. Partials usually last between 5 to 10 years. Read more about partial dentures for molars.
- Pros of partial dentures: they are affordable, removable, and customizable for your needs. Also, they can be easily cleaned and maintained.
- Cons of Partial Dentures: they can be loose when talking or eating, which can irritate the gums. Partial dentures are not as comfortable as dental implants and can break easily.
Why are Dental Bridges Not Suitable If You Have No Molars on One Side?
A traditional dental bridge consists of two crowns and a false tooth in between. The crowns are attached to the adjacent natural teeth on either side of the missing tooth. So, traditional dental bridges are not a suitable treatment option if you have no back teeth (edentulous span). In this case, the dentist will recommend dental implants or a partial denture. Read more about a bridge for back teeth.
No Molars on One Side – Conclusion
If you have no molars on one side (edentulous span), visit your dentist to discuss the treatment options. Dental implants are the best option because they are a permanent solution and can last a lifetime. Partial dentures are an affordable option and are removable. However, they can be loose when talking or eating and are not as comfortable as dental implants.
