If you lose one or more teeth, then you should seek replacement right away. There are a number of options for restoring missing teeth, from dental bridges to dentures. However, dental implants offer the strongest and most lifelike option. Should you consider dental implants?
Try Our Dental Implant Quiz
- True or False: Tooth loss hurts oral health.
- True or False: You should have enough jawbone tissue to support the implant.
- True or False: Dental implants last a lifetime.
- True or False: You can eat as you did prior to losing your tooth/teeth.
Answer Key
- True. Losing a tooth compromises your oral health. A single tooth can cause misalignment as the teeth drift from their positions. Misalignment can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Pressure on the jaw joints from tooth loss can also lead to the onset of TMJ disorder and bruxism. Over time, tooth loss can cause jawbone loss, leading to facial collapse and an older appearance.
- True. We will examine your jaw to make sure you have enough jawbone tissue to support the new tooth. Otherwise, you may need a bone grafting procedure before we can proceed. We will also look at the health of your gums, as advanced gum disease can cause implant failure.
- True. They are inserted into the tooth, where they act like a natural one, preventing misalignment and loss of jawbone density. They can last a lifetime with proper care and attention. You should brush and floss daily and have your teeth examined/cleaned once every six months.
- True. You will be able to eat the variety of foods you did prior to losing your teeth, which can help improve nutritional intake. If you have any questions about dental implants, then please contact our office today.