At some point in almost everyone’s life, a tooth needs to be removed. It may be damaged in an accident, or it may decay and come out on its own or with help from a dentist. Sometimes a dentist needs to remove a crooked tooth to create space for others. When you find yourself missing a tooth for any reason, your dentist may consider replacing it with dental implants.
Some may wonder what harm can come from having a gap in between teeth. Most people don’t like the look of missing teeth, but few are aware that missing teeth can have general health consequences. Missing a tooth may affect your diet, and it may cause the other teeth in your mouth to shift. This in turn can cause issues with your bite resulting in jaw pain, which may be severe.
Also, the longer you go with a gap, the fewer options you may have later. When there is no tooth to hold in place, the jaw bone that once supported it begins to deteriorate rapidly. Not only does this cause a change in your appearance, it makes some repair options, like implants, more difficult or even impossible later on. With less bone, there’s a likelihood that there will not be enough to hold an implant in place.
The implant itself is a tiny titanium post that is embedded deep into your gum. It does the same job as the root of your tooth would by holding in the replacement tooth or creating support for bridgework. The implants are very durable, but you must take care of them, just as you would your natural teeth. The false tooth must be brushed, flossed and cared for professionally every so often.
Before having an implant fitted, you may worry about what the procedure will entail. While it sounds like it could be painful, your dentist will anesthetize you properly so that you will remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Using a dental drill, the professional will drill a small hole in the jaw bone where the implant will go. The titanium implant is then fitted precisely where it needs to be.
After implantation, a period of time must go by for bone to form around the implant to secure it in place. This can take up to six months. If a replacement tooth is attached too soon, the implant may not take in the bone. For this reason, your dentist will monitor the situation until the ideal time arrives.
Once the implant is firmly bonded to the jaw, the dentist will attach the prosthetic tooth. This could be a porcelain replica, other type of false tooth or even bridgework. The tooth itself might be permanent or removable, depending on what is ideal for your situation. Your dentist will determine what is best for you based on how many teeth are missing and other factors.
Having missing teeth can affect one’s self esteem and confidence. It can eliminate your ability to eat certain foods and cause permanent changes in your appearance. It can even cause you to be in pain. Your dentist may consider treating you with dental implants to help you regain the healthy smile you once had and prevent these problems.
Providing the best in Richmond Hill Dentistry care in the dentist in richmond hill area, we use the best emerging technologies to assure good dental health and cosmetic results.
