Cosmetic Dentistry Associates is located in Pomona, NY, and offers full dental implant services for patients missing a tooth. Dr. Peter Auster and Dr. Frances Tang can provide you with a custom dental restoration that will look natural and support your oral health. We also offer other solutions, such as dental bridges and partial dentures; however, a single dental implant is the most popular choice.
Replacing a Single Tooth
We are often asked if it is necessary to replace one missing tooth especially if it is not visible when you smile. The answer is always yes! A missing tooth can have negative consequences on your health. Visible or not, it can also be embarrassing. When a tooth is lost or extracted, it will create a gap in the row of teeth.
In addition to the bone and gum tissue, teeth rely on other teeth to remain in place. When there is a gap, the other teeth will begin to shift out of place. This can affect your bite, creating issues with chewing and may cause TMJ problems. Just one missing tooth can increase your risk for tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss.
Why Choose a Single Dental Implant
Our dentists recommend replacing your missing or extracted tooth with a single dental implant. This is the most natural solution available today. An implant restoration will function similar to a real tooth and also look just like one. If cared for properly, it will last a lifetime. This is also the only solution that will prevent bone loss in the jaw. The implant is a replacement for a tooth root and will better preserve the bone preventing it from deteriorating.
You also have the option of choosing a dental bridge or partial denture (also called a flipper tooth). A flipper tooth is not typically a long term solution. While they are affordable, quick, and easy, they have many draw-backs. They offer very little durability and a lot of people claim they are uncomfortable. Eating and speaking with this type of restoration is difficult. They require daily maintenance and will wear out eventually and require replacement.
A dental bridge is a viable solution to replace a single tooth however to place one means you will need to degrade several healthy teeth. In most cases, the two teeth located on both sides of the gap will need to be reduced to accommodate the bridge. The bridge will be attached to those two adjacent teeth resulting in extra pressure placed on them.
Both the flipper tooth and bridge will not preserve the underlying bone. Without replacing the tooth root, the jaw bone will begin to slowly deteriorate. The only way to prevent bone loss is with a dental implant. It does not require harming any healthy teeth and will allow you to eat the foods you love without restrictions.
Request a Dental Implant Consultation
If you are ready to get started on your dental implant journey, call Cosmetic Dentistry Associates in Pomona, NY today to schedule an appointment. Call (845) 241-0656 or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you replace your missing tooth.