When you lose a tooth, over time the gap in your smile could cause serious complications, including an aged appearance and further tooth loss in extreme cases. In order to restore function and beauty to your smile, you need to have your missing tooth replaced. In today’s blog, we’re looking at the benefits of implant dentistry and how we use dental implants to replace lost teeth.
When to See the Dentist
If you lose a tooth, please let us know. Losing even a single tooth could increase the risk of misalignment, as surrounding teeth move from position due to the gap in your smile. Misalignment only increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth loss has also been linked to a greater risk of TMJ disorder and bruxism, two jaw joint disorders that could cause headaches, jaw pain, and even damaged teeth. If you have multiple missing teeth, also let us know. Addressing advanced tooth loss can restore your ability to eat and speak without difficulty, and also improve your confidence and quality of life.
Dental Implant Placement
A dental implant offers an option that lasts much longer than traditional bridges or dentures. Instead of using crowns or suction to hold them in place, we actually insert the dental implants into the jawbone. Since they’re made from titanium, a biocompatible material, they bond with the jawbone like natural tooth roots. This process, known as osseointegration, takes about three months to complete and secures them like roots, enabling your new teeth to last for decades, if not a lifetime.
Restoration and Maintenance
After osseointegration occurs, we can address the visible aspect of your new tooth. For single dental implants, we will attach an abutment to hold a custom-made dental crown in place, which absorbs bite forces and is designed to look natural and blend with the smile. For those with several missing teeth, we can create a bridge, partial or full denture to attach to the dental implants, providing a prosthetic that never slips, is fixed in place, and lasts longer than removable dentures to crown-secured dental bridges. Caring for them as you would natural teeth, which includes regular brushing and flossing, and routine checkups and cleanings, helps keep them strong. If you have any questions, about implant dentistry or tooth loss, then please contact our team today.
Ready to Give Implant Dentistry a Try?
For patients with missing teeth, we can help with a strong and durable tooth replacement options. For more information on implant dentistry, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.