Having a missing tooth or teeth impacts more than your looks. You may have trouble speaking, eating, or keeping your remaining teeth. Fortunately, there’s a solution for all these problems: dental implants in Albion.
Dental implants can support your natural teeth and improve your oral health. They are one of the top tooth replacement options, providing numerous benefits for adjacent teeth.
Consequences of Missing Teeth
Having your dentist pull a tooth out might seem like a simple answer to your dental problem. However, there are consequences.
When you lose one or more teeth, the teeth on either side may begin moving into the newly vacant space.[1] The neighboring teeth can lean sideways, or an opposing tooth can drop into the space below.
All of this moving around causes bite changes. Ultimately, improper bite alignment can cause:[2]
- Tooth sensitivity
- Cracked teeth
- Gum recession
- TMJ problems
These changes also cause inadequate chewing, putting people at a risk for malabsorption of nutrients, bad digestion, and even choking on unchewed food.
Finally, the jawbone begins deteriorating when you remove an adult tooth and don’t replace it. This bone relies on the natural teeth to stimulate it through chewing and biting. When teeth are missing, the jaw bone no longer has this stimulation and begins breaking down.
Dental Implants in Albion Can Prevent the Consequences of Tooth Loss
A dental implant is an FDA-approved titanium post inserted into the jawbone.[3] Once integrated, it mimics the natural tooth root. It is the premier way to replace missing teeth because it restores the appearance and function of your smile. However, it also helps support and protect your remaining natural teeth.
Preventing Shifting Teeth
After you lose a tooth, the other teeth no longer have the support they need. Because a dental implant acts like a tooth root, it holds the remaining teeth in place. They will not drift, shift, or drop out of their position. This is a dental treatment that can stop further tooth loss from happening.
Preserves Gum Tissue
The pink gum tissue is designed to hug each individual tooth. Once you lose a tooth, this tissue no longer has anything to keep it in place. Eventually, gums begin receding, leaving the roots of adjacent teeth exposed. You’ll have increased sensitivity, and a higher risk for cavities at the base of your teeth, ultimately risking these teeth.
Dental implants replace the tooth root and crown. These false teeth reduce the risk of gum recession and the loss of additional teeth.
Preserves the Jawbone
The titanium implant post replaces the natural tooth root and by applying chewing forces on the jawbone, it stimulates the jawbone making it stronger and healthier. As a result, the jawbone will not shrink, helping prevent facial collapse and future tooth loss.
Inspires You to Improve Your Oral Care
Dental implants in Albion are a significant investment. This treatment can motivate patients to take better care of their oral health.
After completing the implant procedure, you may be inspired to practice good oral hygiene. By taking care of your new artificial tooth, you’ll also improve the health of your other teeth. Your new oral hygiene routine can decrease your risk of experiencing other oral health problems, including decay and tooth loss.
Dental Implants in Albion: Options for Replacing Your Teeth
The best way to know which tooth-replacement option is best for you is to schedule an implant consultation with an experienced implant dentist. They’ll evaluate your oral health and present your options.
If you are missing one tooth, a single implant and crown can replace it. One metal post will be inserted into the bone, and an artificial tooth crown will be placed on top. It will look and feel like a natural tooth.
Another option is implant-supported bridges. This type of implant bridges the gap between natural teeth. It is best for those with at least two missing teeth. Not every crown within the final bridge requires an implant. Ultimately, your dentist will determine how many posts will benefit your smile.
Explore Your Dental Implant Options
Remember that a missing tooth affects your oral health, not just your appearance. However, dental implants can help with both of these issues.
If you’re interested in dental implants, contact Albion Family Dental at 585-589-9044. Our team is experienced in general and cosmetic dentistry, and we’ll help protect your remaining teeth and give you a smile you’ll love.
Sources:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8834766/
[2] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22010-malocclusion
[3] https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-implants-what-you-should-know#reporting