Missing teeth disrupt the stability of the smile, requiring the right treatment to prevent long-term oral health concerns. The point of concern is not the gaps in the smile, but rather the absent tooth roots, which are an integral part of the jaw structure. Dentures and bridges, although reliable, only treat the visual and functional issue of missing a tooth or teeth, leaving the largest health issues unaddressed.
Dental implant treatment is the best option patients have for replacing a tooth or teeth from the root up. If you’re looking into dental implants as a solution for your missing teeth, contact Dr. Parvaneh Sajjadi for a consultation. She will be able to determine if implants are the right choice for you according to the following considerations:
Bone Health
The jaw relies on tooth roots to retain its structure. Extracted or lost teeth leave a vacancy that is often left unaddressed. The surrounding tissue moves into this area, reducing the density of bone. Teeth shift with the moving bone, creating unevenness in alignment. Over time, a jaw with multiple missing teeth will undergo rapid resorption which leads to functional health issues and a sunken facial appearance. It’s crucial to fill in the gaps left by tooth loss, either with a bone graft or dental implants.
Implants are small posts inserted into the bone as replacement roots. Made from biocompatible materials, implant posts are made to fuse to the bone through natural processes. If implants are attached soon after tooth loss, they will minimize the aforementioned long-term health complications. If some time has passed, the posts slow the rate of jaw resorption but do not reverse it. Tissue grafting procedures are the only treatments that can resolve bone loss.
Overall Oral Health
Gum disease and decay both cause tooth loss and need treatment before restorative care can take place. Both of these oral health issues can are linked to diet, hygiene practices, and dental care. A diet with high amounts of processed sugar and few natural ingredients results in poor oral health. Without active brushing and flossing practices, bacteria are allowed to spread from teeth to soft tissues, and even the bone. Normally, routine dental checkups prevent tooth loss as an outcome.
Dental implants cannot be placed until stable oral health is established. This may involve periodontal maintenance, tooth fillings, or other treatments, but is worthwhile for the long-term health of your smile.
Contact Potomac Dental Clinic for Dental Implants
Dr. Sajjadi will help determine your candidacy for implant treatment with a personal consultation, coordinate the placement procedure with an oral surgeon, and then provide the custom restorations. If you have missing teeth and want to have a full smile again, call our practice today!