What happens if you do not replace a missing tooth?
A missing tooth can affect the aesthetics of your smile, which may lead to embarrassment. But, even if you cannot see the missing tooth, you should replace it. Gaps located anywhere along the arch, whether you can see them or not, can lead to many complications. Missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to begin shifting towards the void.
This can easily lead to bite problems or cause TMJ issues, which can be very painful. People with missing teeth can have difficulties chewing, speaking, and keeping their teeth and gums properly cleaned. Failing to properly clean your teeth leads to an increased risk of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
How many teeth can dental implants replace?
Dental implants are a sophisticated way to replace any number of missing teeth. They are designed to be used with dental restorations that are made to fit perfectly in your mouth. For a single missing tooth, one implant will be used to secure a dental crown. If you are missing a few consecutive teeth, a dental bridge can be secured to two or more implants.
If you are missing most or all of your teeth, up to eight dental implants can be used per jaw to secure a denture. Pomona, NY dentists, Dr. Peter Auster and Dr. Frances Tang, will come up with custom solution to replace your missing teeth.
How do dental implants prevent bone loss?
Dental implants are the only solution that will replace a tooth at the root. Bone loss is a common problem seen with people missing teeth. Bone deterioration in the jaw can alter facial features, such as causing your chin to appear longer, your mouth to sink into your face, and wrinkles to form around the mouth.
All of these issues can make a person appear older than they really are. Implants will act as the missing tooth’s root and provide enough stimulation to avoid bone loss and all the problems that stem from that.
What are the advantages of choosing dental implants?
Choosing dental implants over bridges or dentures will help keep the shape of your face and prevent your remain teeth from shifting. With dentures, patients often report suffering from slurred speech and embarrassing situations because they slip around in the mouth.
To place a bridge, the neighboring teeth will need to be reduced permanently and endure more stress. A dental implant restoration is very stable in the mouth and does not require neighboring teeth to be damaged.
Are dental implants safe?
Dental implants have a 95% success rate and rarely ever cause harm to the patient. They have been used for many years and advances in dental technology have only made them better. The materials used to make implants are proven to be safe and will not cause harm to the body. Even the implantation procedure is fairly routine and predictable leaving little room for error.
How much do dental implants cost?
The total cost of one implant case will not be identical to another. Everyone will have unique circumstances that will affect the total cost. The location of the missing teeth in the mouth, the number of teeth missing, the current state of the patient’s oral health, and the types of materials needed all will affect the cost.
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Peter Auster or Dr. Frances Tang at their Pomona, NY, dentist office.
Does anyone qualify for dental implants?
We recommend them for people who have lost one or more teeth. We also take a look at any underlying health issues. For example, untreated gum disease can lead to implant failure should the disease enter the later stages. We also look at the state of the jawbone tissue, as tooth loss can cause loss of jawbone density, which impacts candidacy.
Will I require oral surgery for dental implants?
Yes, the implant will be surgically inserted into the jawbone. The implant then bonds with the bone tissue though a process known as osseointegration, allowing it to act as a new tooth root. The tooth then enjoys greater stability and the ability to last longer than bridges or dentures.
How do you restore dental implants?
For a single tooth option, we place a custom-made dental crown. For prosthetics, we create a custom-made denture or bridge and attach it to the dental implants, fixing it in place.
What can I do to ensure my dental implants last?
You can continue to care of them as you would your natural teeth. Which means taking time to brush twice a day and flossing your teeth thoroughly each night before going to bed. We also urge patients to see us every six months of a checkup and cleaning, allowing us to monitor your new tooth and remove plaque buildup.