A missing tooth may not seem like a big deal if you are not in pain. However, the gap left behind can impact more than just the appearance of your smile. Changes in chewing, tooth movement and the supporting bone can develop over time. If you are looking for dental implants in Elyson, TX, understanding the possible outcomes of tooth loss can help you decide if replacement is something worth pursuing. Katy Lakes Dentistry can help you consider your choices based on your individual dental needs.
A Missing Tooth Can Affect More Than Appearance
The gap left by a missing tooth is the most obvious change, but it is not the only one.
The teeth around the area can gradually move into the empty space and this can affect the alignment and how your teeth come together. The jawbone beneath the missing tooth can change as well. Natural tooth roots stimulate the surrounding bone and this stimulation is lost when teeth are lost.
Why Consider an Implant?
Unlike some other options for replacing teeth, dental implants are designed to replace the root as well as the tooth you can see.
An implant is inserted into the jawbone and left to heal. Once the area has healed sufficiently, you can place a restoration such as a crown.
This forms a good base for the replacement tooth and can help restore normal functions like biting and chewing.
There are other options than implants. In some circumstances, a bridge or removable partial denture may also be considered. Each solution has its advantages, disadvantages, treatment requirements and maintenance needs.
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
Not everyone who is missing a tooth is instantly ready for an implant.
Your dentist may check your gums, jawbone, surrounding teeth and your overall oral health. Imaging may be recommended for further assessment of the area.
If there is not enough bone support or if there is another dental problem that needs to be treated, you may need to have some other treatment before the implant can be placed.
Patients at Katy Lakes Dentistry can talk about these factors and what might be involved before making a decision about treatment.
What If Your Teeth Are Misaligned Too?
Tooth replacement and orthodontics are two different things.
Patients researching braces in Elyson, TX may have crowded, crooked or widely spaced teeth that require repositioning. Braces slowly move natural teeth while an implant takes the place of a missing tooth.
In some cases, both restorative and orthodontic treatment may be indicated. The sequence of treatment depends on the patient’s dental condition and overall treatment objectives.
When Should You Explore Your Options?
There is no one timeline for replacing every missing tooth. But if you leave the decision open ended, then it allows changes to occur around the empty space.
Even if the tooth has been missing for a number of years, replacement may still be possible. Your dentist can examine the bone and tissues surrounding the area where the implant will be placed and recommend the most appropriate approach.
If you are considering dental implants in Elyson, TX, a consultation can help you see if an implant would be right for you and what other options may be available.
Make a Decision Based on Your Needs
Replacing a missing tooth is more than just filling in a visible gap. Your bite, surrounding teeth, treatment preferences and long-term goals should all be taken into consideration for your oral health.
Katy Lakes Dentistry can help patients understand their tooth replacement options and what may be a good fit for their situations. If alignment is also an issue, discussing braces in Elyson, TX can help determine if orthodontic treatment needs to be included in the full treatment plan.
A personalized assessment can assist you in making a treatment decision based upon your actual dental needs.