Tooth loss can affect millions of people each year, whether due to advanced gum disease, impact trauma, or a necessary tooth extraction. Even if the underlying cause of the tooth loss is treated, you could be at risk of secondary oral health problems from missing teeth.
You can consult with your dentist to find a restorative treatment to replace your missing teeth and prevent these concerns. Dr. Quinn Woodruff, a dentist located in McLeansville, NC, describes how dental implants and other tooth replacement solutions can help you avoid developing major dental issues following tooth loss.
Why Should I Replace Missing Teeth?
Restore Oral Function
If an individual is missing one or more teeth, they may notice a decline in their ability to perform oral functions, like chewing and speaking. These impediments can negatively impact the patient’s quality of life.
Tooth replacement with either removable or fixed appliances can allow patients to eat and talk normally once again. This can renew confidence in these individuals that can carry over into other aspects of their lives. They can discuss which restorative dental treatments will best suit their unique dental needs during a consultation appointment with their dentist.
Preserve Jawbone and Facial Structure
If a patient has lost a tooth, the jawbone will no longer receive stimulation from that tooth root below the gumline. In its absence, the jawbone may deteriorate, leading to side effects like the appearance of facial sagging and the shifting of remaining teeth.
Removable appliances like dentures will not replace the absent tooth root, so dental professionals will often recommend dental implants to preserve the jawbone after tooth loss. This fixture uses a surgically placed titanium post anchor to support a prosthetic tooth.
The anchor functions as a substitute tooth root, stimulating the jaw and ceasing the degeneration of bone there. It may also encourage bone that has already deteriorated to regrow. Your dentist will evaluate your existing jaw structure with x-ray imaging to determine if you are eligible for this treatment.
Boost the Appearance of Your Smile
Patients with one or more missing teeth may feel discouraged about their appearance due to gaps in their smiles. They can get a boost of self-esteem when they enhance the look of their smile with prosthetic teeth.
A dental professional will consider the patient’s facial and dental structure as well as their aesthetic goals to create a personalized smile makeover strategy. With dental implants, patients may experience smile enhancement treatment that will provide cosmetic benefits for a lifetime.
Dental Implants and More Restorative Treatments in McLeansville, NC
McLeansville Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers dental implants and other tooth replacement solutions to patients in McLeansville, NC. Dr. Woodruff also specializes in restorative, cosmetic, and general dentistry, including both preventative and emergency dental care, for patients of all ages. To schedule a consultation or appointment with our practice, contact our staff by phone at 336.506.6545 or reach our office online.