If you lose a tooth, you may feel embarrassed but assume this is an issue that doesn’t require immediate attention. However, the sooner you address your tooth loss, the more likely you are to avoid major complications. In today’s blog, your Shrewsbury, MA, dentist talks about how we treat tooth loss with dental implants.
The Dangers of Losing Natural Teeth
How does a person lose a tooth? Missing teeth could be the result of serious tooth decay or infections, as well as injuries or accidents. The advanced stage of gum disease, known as periodontitis, is the number one cause of missing teeth. When you begin to lose teeth, the body will respond to the missing root by suspending the flow of calcium and phosphorus to the surrounding bone structure, which means further tooth loss and eventually, an older appearance. Missing teeth are also linked to issues eating, difficulty speaking clearly, and even misalignment, TMJ disorder, and bruxism (teeth grinding). But our team can help you avoid these complications with the placement of one or more dental implants.
How Dental Implants Help
The implant portion is a small post made from titanium, which the body will accept as natural root structure. When we insert the post into the jawbone, planning carefully to ensure the right angle, position, and depth, this can preserve the jawbone and prevent the loss of mass and density. You now have a tooth that can last far longer than a bridge or partial denture. For an individual one, we can attach a crown and abutment to complete your tooth. For advanced tooth loss, multiple posts could be used to secure bridges, partials, or even full sets of dentures. In fact, in some cases we can complete the entire process in one visit, so you leave with a full smile.
Starting Your Treatment
If you have missing teeth, then contact our team today for a consultation, so we can examine your smile to assess the cause and severity of your tooth loss. We then choose the best areas to insert your new post, and can see if you need treatments like grafting or a sinus lift beforehand, which could be necessary if the jawbone weakens and wears down. Whether you have one missing tooth or several, we can help you smile with confidence again using dental implants. If you have any questions or want to set up a consultation, then contact our team right away,
Do You Have Questions About Treating Tooth Loss?
Our team wants to help you enjoy a full smile again by taking on your missing teeth. To find out more about our dental implant options and start summer on the path to a full smile again, then please call our Shrewsbury/Grafton, MA area dental office at 508-842-8838.
