The loss of one or more teeth can have significant impacts on both the oral health and the appearance of a person. Unfortunately, tooth loss is quite common in the United States with many adults missing at least one tooth. This not only affects their ability to eat and speak normally but may also impact their self-esteem and confidence. At Dental Life, we are dedicated to providing our patients with advanced solutions for missing teeth such as single tooth dental implants.
In the past, fixed dental bridges were the standard method for replacing a single missing tooth. This procedure involves placing an artificial tooth, known as a dental crown, between two existing natural teeth which have been crowned to support it. While dental bridgework remains a reliable and satisfying option, you may also be a candidate for a single-tooth dental implant.
Dental implants represent the most cutting-edge method available today for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dental bridges, which require the preparation and crowning of adjacent teeth, a single dental implant is entirely self-supporting. This means that a single dental implant topped with a crown can effectively replace a missing tooth without needing any additional support.
Besides supporting a single crown, dental implants offer another important benefit: bone preservation. When a tooth gets lost or is extracted, the jawbone underneath it will gradually shrink away over time. This resorption can compromise the future success of restorations and even lead to changes in facial appearance. However, since a dental implant behaves like the root of a natural tooth and stimulates bone growth, it helps prevent bone loss and maintain facial contours.
In addition to replacing a single missing tooth, dental implants are extremely versatile and can be used to replace multiple missing teeth. They provide excellent support for long-span bridges or even entire smiles! Furthermore, they can offer added stability and retention to removable dentures.
At Dental Life, we are committed to helping our patients make informed decisions about their dental care. Our dedicated staff will take the time to discuss your unique needs and recommend the most suitable treatment option for you. We believe that every patient deserves a smile they can be proud of, and we'll work closely with you every step of the way.
If you're missing one or more teeth and considering dental implants as an alternative to traditional bridgework, call us today! Our experienced team will be happy to answer any questions you may have or schedule an appointment for a consultation at our office. Let us help you reclaim your confidence with a healthy, complete smile.