Implants – The Importance of Replacing a Missing Tooth
Having a missing tooth doesn’t just give a knock to your confidence, it can also have adverse effects on your oral health. Having a full set of teeth will not only make you proud of your smile; it will also make it easier to eat, prevents drifting and tilting of the neighbouring tooth and over-eruption of the opposing tooth. The tilting of the neighbouring tooth especially, will result in difficult access to clean and allow easier accumulation of bacterial plaque. iSmile Dentistry has a wealth of experience in cosmetic dentistry and implants, and in this blog post we’ll be discussing the consequences of having a missing tooth and why it should be replaced as early as possible with a dental implant.
What Happens if I do not Replace a Missing Tooth?
People can lose teeth for many reasons, with the most common being decay, gum disease and trauma. Failing to replace these teeth can cause serious complications which place both your oral and general health at risk. The roots of the teeth play an important role in supporting the jawbone. When a tooth is lost, it only takes 1-2 months to see loss of bone at that site. This can lead to weakening of the jaw and alter the shape of your jaw and face. It also makes neighbouring teeth more susceptible to decay and lead to other dental problems.
Those with missing teeth may experience the following complications:
- Bone loss
- Increased risk of tooth decay
- Increased risk of periodontal disease
- Neighbouring teeth shifting out – of – place due to the gap
- Increased wear on other teeth
- Difficulty eating
- Reduced self – esteem
Replacing a Missing Tooth with Implants
An implant is a safe and effective way to replace a missing tooth and restores your smile. An implant replaces the root of the tooth, and it is made from strong and durable titanium, which itself is biocompatible, hence allowing your bone to integrate around it. A dental crown (artificial tooth) is then placed on the implant, filling the gap and restoring your smile and function. The crown will look and feel just like your natural teeth, so you can smile with confidence once more.
Implants offer the following benefits:
- Effective option for replacement of missing teeth
- Natural look and feel
- No impact on neighbouring teeth
- High success rate with good long – term prognosis
- Restore full function and aesthetics
The Implant Process
The dental implant procedure typically takes around several months, as you will need to allow for healing between stages.
Initially, you will need to come in for a consultation with your dentist to decide suitability and discuss the procedure. During the treatment planning stage, a 3D X-ray will be taken of your teeth and jawbone.
The implant will be placed within the jawbone and beneath your gumline, where it will fuse with the surrounding bone tissue over a period of 2-5 months. Once it has osseo-integrated with the surrounding bone, the abutment will be attached. In 3-4 weeks, the dental crown can then be attached to the abutment, completing the tooth implant procedure.
Missing Teeth? Contact iSmile Dentistry Today
Everyone deserves to smile with confidence. By replacing your missing teeth, you can restore your smile to its former glory, benefit from increased functionality and reduce your risk of serious dental complications arising.
To arrange a consultation to discuss dental implants, please call iSmile Dentistry today on 02 9030 4310. We look forward to seeing you at our St Leonards dental hub soon.