Missing even just one tooth can affect the way you look, eat, and even the way that you talk. It can also leave your remaining teeth vulnerable to movement or loss. Losing teeth can lead to a loss of bone density in your jaw, which can have a negative affect on your smile’s health. Replacing a tooth with a prosthetic like a crown, dentures, or bridge can improve your appearance and abilities. But replacing a tooth’s roots with a dental implant can decrease your chances of losing more teeth or bone density.
Issues Caused By Tooth Loss
It can be easy to consider replacing a lost tooth as merely a cosmetic issue. Replacing a tooth is also important for your oral health. Depending on where the tooth loss has occurred in your smile, the way you bite and chew your food will be impacted. The impact can you make will put increased wear on your remaining teeth on the other side of your mouth. Your jawbone is stimulated by the roots of your teeth. When the roots are removed with the tooth, you may experience bone resorption or a loss of density in your bone. Losing bone density can endanger your remaining teeth by weakening the jaw. It can cause the jawbone to shift or change shape, which can even cause replacement teeth to have a shaky foundation.
What Is A Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a biocompatible titanium post that is inserted directly into your jaw bone. This post will serve as an anchor for a replacement tooth. The implant functions like the roots of your natural tooth, which provides permanent security for the replacement prosthetic. The dental implant provides stimulation to the jawbone, which will deter the body from taking away essential minerals and causing bone density loss. The implant can absorb pressure from biting and chewing, which can even out the wear and tear of your teeth.
Could an implant replace your missing tooth?
Talk to Dr. Coon about an implant’s role in your smile. To schedule a consultation, call Grinnell Street Dental at (307) 672-7567. Located in Sheridan, WY, we also proudly serve the residents of Gillette, Billings, Miles City, and all surrounding communities.
