The loss of teeth can have a significant impact on your life and self-esteem due to aesthetic implications. Missing teeth can also cause bite problems and difficulties with eating. Previously, the only solution for replacing missing teeth was fixed bridges or dentures.
However, more recently, dental implants have become a more comfortable, effective and permanent solution. Dental implants will look, function and feel like your own natural teeth. Let’s take a closer look at dental implants in Scottsdale and how Dr. Sara can help restore your smile.
The Negative Effect of Missing Teeth
The effects of missing teeth can be detrimental to your long-term oral and medical health. Replacing missing teeth can dramatically improve your smile and the shape of your face. Gaps in your teeth often affect the way that your jaw closes, which causes the remaining teeth to begin to tilt and move into the gaps. Not only can your teeth begin to shift, but food can become trapped in the gaps as well, which increases your risk for developing gum disease and tooth decay.
How Dental Implants Work
Before dental implants can be placed, your bone density will be assessed to ensure that you have sufficient quality and quantity of bone tissue available where the implant will be placed. If there is insufficient bone or significant bone loss has occurred, then you may need bone grafting before the implant can be placed.
Implants are typically placed in one sitting, but require a period of osseointegration, which is the process in which direct anchorage of the dental implant root and the bone of the jaw occur. Dental implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support, and are permanent, making this procedure a good solution to tooth loss.
What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?
Not only do dental implants replace missing teeth, but they can provide you with a variety of other benefits. Some added advantages of dental implants include:
- Improved appearance
- Improved speech
- Improved comfort
- Easier eating
- Improved self-esteem
- Durability
- Improved oral health
- Convenience
A tooth should be replaced as soon as it is lost in order to maintain your oral health and further prevent bone loss, as well as to avoid excess decay. If you have missing teeth it is important to visit Dr. Sara, our dentist here in North Scottsdale, AZ to schedule a proper consultation to create a treatment plan.
