Why is replacing a missing tooth important?
Missing teeth create a domino effect of oral health problems. All of your teeth are placeholders in your smile. Each tooth has a specific function and is shaped and located specifically for that purpose. When the tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can become unstable in their positions. These remaining teeth will drift out of position to accommodate for the missing tooth. Often, this creates malocclusion, or bad bite. When teeth are out of place, your top and bottom teeth do not align correctly. Malocclusion causes bruxism (teeth grinding), TMJ disorder (a condition associated with jaw pain), and countless other dental health issues.
How does a missing tooth affect my jaw?
Not replacing a missing tooth can have serious implication for your jawbone health. Alveolar atrophy, or jawbone shrinkage occurs as a result of a missing tooth. A healthy tooth root connected to the jawbone will encourage jawbone growth with the stimulation from chewing. When the tooth is gone, the chewing stimulation stops to that area and the bone begins to deteriorate. Jawbone atrophy combined with multiple missing teeth can create a collapsed look in the patient’s smile.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Dental implants prevent malocclusion and jawbone deterioration by replacing the missing tooth. A small titanium post acts as an anchor for the restoration. The post is placed into the jaw and osseointegrates with the bone. After the biocompatible post fuses to the bone, a crown can be placed on top of the post as the only exposed portion of the implant above the gum line. The titanium anchor and the porcelain crown offer security and discretion. The post allows the restoration to feel stable and natural. The porcelain crown mimics the coloration, size, and shape of the tooth, making the implant look authentic.
Dental Implants in Sheridan
If you have a missing tooth, don’t wait for dental health issues to surface before you replace the tooth. Implant dentist, Dr. Coon will help you regain your tooth function and dignity with dental implants in Sheridan. The friendly professionals at our dentist office in Sheridan will work to make your implant procedure as comfortable as possible. For a dental implant consultation or to schedule an appointment, call Grinnell Street Dental at (307)672-7567.
