The loss of a single tooth hardly seems like a catastrophe. It’s just one tooth, right? However, even the loss of one tooth can lead to a domino effect that can cause additional tooth loss and other uncomfortable or detrimental side effects. For this reason, even if you have only lost one tooth, it is a good idea to consider having a tooth implant.
The way your teeth fit together affects your ability to chew and bite efficiently. It also affects the way your jawbones align with each other. If your jaws do not align properly, the results in the long term can be uncomfortable and detrimental to your overall health. [pullquote]…even the loss of one tooth can lead to a domino effect that can cause additional tooth loss and other uncomfortable or detrimental side effects. [/pullquote]
Although it seems like the loss of only one tooth should not have a serious effect on the rest of your mouth, it can lead to numerous problems in the future. These include:
Even if you are only missing one tooth, the best course of action is to replace the tooth in order to keep your other teeth properly aligned and prevent these long-term side effects. The best option for tooth replacement is a tooth implant.
Although dentures and bridges are viable options for tooth replacement, the best option as far as long-term results is a dental implant. Dental implants are a permanent replacement option that provides not only the visible portion of the tooth but also a root that is anchored in the jawbone. Because a tooth implant includes a root, it helps stimulate growth in the jawbone. Long-term denture wearers can experience reduction in the volume of the bone tissue in the jaw, which over time can change the shape of the face, drawing the lower jaw closer to the upper jaw. A dental implant prevents this from occurring, and provides a natural-looking, permanent, durable replacement for your missing tooth.
If you are considering dental implants and want more information, contact the office of Dr. Carlos Letelier at 702-367-6666 today.