When you have lost a tooth, or if you have lost several or all of them, then we can help with the placement of dental implants. With proper care and attention, these new teeth can last for decades, maybe even a lifetime! In today’s blog, your Shrewsbury, MA, dentist offers tips for helping your new teeth last.
The Causes and Risks of Tooth Loss
You shouldn’t ignore your tooth loss, even if you have only one missing tooth. Without treatment to address the gap in your smile, missing teeth could lead to embarrassment, poorer quality of life, and even issues eating or speaking. Missing teeth also mean weaker jaws, as the body will suspend the flow of calcium and phosphorus to the jaw around your missing root. The bone structure then weakens and erodes, which can lead to additional missing teeth and even a prematurely aged appearance. To keep your smile intact, you need to receive dental implants, which can last for decades or possibly a lifetime. But how do they last so long?
Placing Dental Implants
The key to their longevity is the implant nature of them. We don’t secure them with just crowns or clasps, or suction and adhesives. Instead, we will insert a biocompatible titanium post into the jaw, which acts like a new root and is accepted by the body as such. This helps stimulate the growth of jawbone structure to keep your smile intact and prevent changes to your appearance or the stability of your smile. You can smile with confidence for years to come! We then complete your new tooth with a crown, or use several posts to support a bridge or even a full set of dentures.
Keeping Them Strong
What can you do to keep them strong and secure so they have the potential to truly last for decades? First, you need to protect them from issues like gum disease, which could lead to implant failure. You should brush your teeth twice daily and floss every evening, and try to cut back on sugary and starch-rich foods and drinks. Doing so helps lower the severity of plaque and tartar buildup until you can see us for a cleaning. You should see us for a checkup and cleaning every six months. These actions help keep your natural teeth in place and ensure longevity for your new teeth too.
If you have any questions about how we treat missing teeth with dental implants, then contact our team today to learn more.
Enjoy Tooth Replacement With Modern Dentistry Of Shrewsbury
Our team wants to offer a tooth replacement option that can last for decades to come. To find out more about our office or to schedule a time for tooth replacement, call Modern Dentistry of Shrewsbury in Shrewsbury, MA at (508) 842-8838 today.
