A missing tooth is more than just an aesthetic concern.
All too often an individual missing a tooth in the back of their mouth will have an "out of sight, out of mind" mentality. This can be a huge oversight!
It is more appropriate to think of a missing tooth as a space where a tooth used to be. Above and beyond aesthetics, that tooth's purpose included acting as a chewing surface, holding its place with regards to adjacent teeth, maintaining the bone structure where it was rooted, along with many other structural and preventative roles.
Without a tooth or space filler in place, shifting teeth can cause gaps, increasing the occurrence of tooth decay, bone loss, periodontal disease and the appearance of premature aging.
Many of these maladies can be prevented with a dental implant.
When teeth are missing, the surrounding bone begins to shrink. This unhealthy bone loss can make your jaw line recede. Dental implants can prevent deterioration of the jawbone cause by the loss of teeth, so your face retains its natural shape.
Dental implants eliminate the need to alter surrounding healthy teeth to accommodate a bridge or other restoration.
Dental Implants are securely anchored. There is no slipping or movement as there is with dentures. This eliminates some of the key worries of dentures, including poor fit, gum irritation, and pain from exposed nerves.
With dental implants, you will never need to cover your mouth when laughing, smiling, or speaking. You can eat your favorite foods without pain or fear of embarrassment - and taste every bite. You will look better, feel better, and live more confidently.
There are many different types of dental implants available. Ask your dentist to discuss the benefits of dental implants with you.