When you’re missing a tooth, it’s always on your mind. Whether you’re meeting that new client for the first time, and you’re too embarrassed to smile. Or perhaps it was trying to eat that salad during lunch with your co-worker. Or maybe it was how self-conscious you felt about smiling for the family photo. Whatever the situation, your missing tooth affects your life in a number of ways. Did you know that missing a tooth could also affect your oral health? Your dentist in Carlisle, PA discusses why tooth replacements are important.
Bone Loss
When your root is missing your jawbone becomes compromised and begins to resorb, or lose density. This can change the appearance of your face; causing a sagging look and making you appear older than you are. It also puts you at a higher risk for more tooth loss.
Tooth Shifting
If you don’t replace your missing tooth, your remaining teeth will gradually begin to shift into the open spaces over time. This causes bite misalignment, which leads to a host of other oral problems. Bite misalignment not only puts your teeth at risk for damage and fractures, it also contributes to a painful jaw disorder known as TMD, or temporomandibular disorder. TMD causes jaw, neck and shoulder pain, not mention headaches.
What are the Options for Replacing My Tooth?
The best option for tooth replacement that dentistry has to offer is dental implants. The success of dental implants lies in the fact that they replace both your tooth and your root. A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone to replace your root and create a foundation for your new tooth, or crown. After the appropriate healing time, your dentist will place your crown, which is made of high quality porcelain and custom designed to match your smile.
A dental implant acts just like your natural tooth, and you’ll be able to eat, brush and floss just as you normally would. Your implant is very durable, and with the right home care routine and regular dental check ups it can potentially last for a lifetime. Implants have become one of the most reliable treatments, boasting a 95% success rate. They can also be used to support dentures for a more secure and reliable fit.
Dentures are a removable option designed to replace an entire arch of teeth, while partials are a removable option for patients who still have healthy teeth remaining. Dentures typically stay in place with suction or a snug fit, and partials snap into place with a clasp. Dental bridges are a permanent option that anchors crowns to your healthy teeth with a prosthetic tooth in between to replace your missing tooth.
At Carlisle Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. Thomas Neslund specializes in helping patients restore form and function to their smiles. Using high quality materials and offering top-notch dental care in a warm and friendly atmosphere is how Dr. Neslund has built his family dental practice, and he looks forward to helping you. Don’t let your missing tooth affect your life any longer! Contact our office today to learn more about tooth replacement.