While missing a single tooth may not seem like a big problem, there are dire effects on your overall oral health. A missing tooth impacts the entire structure of your mouth and can lead to alignment issues, tooth decay, and gum disease. A single dental implant is an ideal choice for replacement. Dr. Edward Lazer, a Baltimore dentist, explains the burden of a missing tooth and why a single dental implant is an ideal choice to replace it.
The Issue With a Missing Tooth
Many people across America have at least one tooth missing, and you may not think missing one is a big deal. But the jaws and your teeth are delicately balanced, one hole can create a spiraling effect for your oral health. While you may not notice it, a missing tooth impacts how you chew, causing your jaw to work in a slightly different way. This can lead to more broken teeth due to the pressure imbalance, as well as TMJ disorders.
When you lose a tooth, your jawbone begins to deteriorate. The longer you have a tooth missing, the longer it will continue. Your teeth may become jumbled and crooked because they’re shifting to fill the void in your smile. When your teeth are in different positions, it can be harder to clean them. This leads to a higher likelihood of developing gum disease or tooth decay.
Why Get a Single Dental Implant?
A dental implant is considered the gold standard of tooth replacement — and for good reason. It’s the only tooth replacement option that replaces the tooth root as well as the crown. Replacing the tooth root allows the implant to prevent further bone deterioration, and even help to reverse some of the deterioration that’s already occurred.
Dental implants also look and feel the most natural. You get back 100% of your bite function with a dental implant, as opposed to a removable option like a dental bridge. You won’t have to make any changes to your diet or worry about a replacement slipping. It’s topped with a dental crown that’s custom-made to blend in seamlessly with your smile. Most people won’t even be able to tell it’s a crown!
The Dental Implant Process
To determine if a dental implant is a good choice for you, you’ll first have a consultation with the dentist. Dental implants do require that your oral health is in good condition and that you have enough healthy bone structure to support the implant. If you’re determined to be a good candidate, we’ll set you up for the implant surgery.
A titanium implant post will be surgically placed in the mouth. Once this is done, it takes about 3-6 months for the implant to heal and fuse with the jawbone. This gives it the stability implants are known for. When it’s healed, a piece called an abutment is fitted to connect the post to the final restoration. A custom dental crown will be made to finish up your implant.
A Single Dental Implant From Your Baltimore Dentist
Does a single dental implant sound like the right solution for your missing tooth? Call us or schedule an appointment online.