Paxton, MA dentist explains the purpose of implants to replace your missing teeth
The pieces of the mouth work together as a unit. The loss of a single part disrupts the natural balance and function. Losing just one tooth may cause the adjacent teeth to shift, bone loss, or gum problems. Now, you can replace your missing teeth with dental implants. Dr. Scott Siemen and the team at Paxton Dental Care in Paxton, MA offer implants for missing teeth to help patients regain their beautiful, properly functioning smiles.
Dental implants for missing teeth
Made of titanium or ceramic, a dental implant is a cylinder or post that is precisely positioned in the jaw in place of the missing tooth. The procedure to place an implant is a simple, yet precise oral surgery. The implant itself mimics a tooth root and provides a sturdy base for a dental restoration.
Since implants may be used to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, they may be topped with crowns, bridges, or dentures. A single implant can be topped with a crown to replace one tooth. Multiple implants may support individual crowns, an implant-supported bridge, or implant-supported dentures.
After an implant is placed, the bone and gums must be given time to heal. Once healed, an abutment connects the implant with the crown to establish a fully functioning restoration. The final result looks and acts like a natural tooth. Your smile is complete.
Benefits of implants for missing teeth
Tooth loss can lead to bone deterioration, shifting teeth, and a change in your facial appearance. Since dental implants topped with a crown mimic the natural structure of the tooth, these restorations offer many functional and aesthetic benefits.
- Beautiful smile – Rather than having a gap in your smile, dental implants replace your missing teeth and complete your smile. Topped with a porcelain crown, the restoration appears to be a natural tooth.
- Healthy bone – When a tooth is lost, the bone begins to break down and facial volume is lost. A dental implant is the only tooth replacement option that prevents bone resorption which can leave you with an unnatural smile or altered facial appearance. With its position in the jaw, the bone stays healthy giving the face a more youthful appearance.
- Functional smile – When an implant replaces a missing tooth, it keeps the adjacent teeth from shifting, stimulates the jawbone, and protects overall oral health. The teeth can function normally. Your speech is improved, and you can eat without getting food stuck in the gap of a missing tooth.
- Durable restoration – The dental implant provides a stable base for dental restorations. The implant and crown can withstand the same pressures as your natural teeth so chewing and speaking are normal.
- Long-lasting solution – Dental implants have a high success rate. They are readily accepted and help keep the bone and gums healthy. With proper oral care, implants can last a lifetime.
Dental implants can permanently replace missing teeth. For more information on how to replace your missing teeth with implants, contact Paxton Dental Care in Paxton, MA. Call (508) 557-2400.
