If you are missing one or more teeth, there are a few things your dentist might suggest — partial dentures, or implant bridgework, for instance. But you may be wondering why you should even bother. Maybe it just sounds like it’s too much trouble, or it sounds like it would be too painful, or you think such things are just for people who are overly concerned about their looks. However, there are several good reasons why you should get an implant, beyond just keeping your smile beautiful!
A dental implant is made up of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the gum and a replacement tooth that goes on top of the post. Implants look and feel natural, and they don’t require special care — you take care of them as you would natural teeth. Implant bridgework is made up of implants (instead of natural teeth as in a regular dental bridge) and the crowns that connect them to form one unit, and it is permanent. Partial dentures, which can be removed, are used for people who are missing a few teeth.
If you are missing a tooth, it is best to get treatment as soon as you can. The longer you wait, the more expensive and difficult it can be to replace it.
Health Effects of Missing Teeth
There are many good reasons to see your dentist if you are missing teeth. For one thing, having one or more empty spaces can make it difficult for you to speak and chew properly, which can affect your quality of life.
Leaving an empty space in your mouth can lead to more problems, and they can get more and more serious. The other teeth in your mouth may begin to move, affecting the way you bite down, which places extra stress on your remaining teeth and causes them to become sensitive.
You may even start to lose jawbone if you are missing a tooth — a healthy tooth and healthy roots stimulate the jawbone to grow in a healthy way. Without the tooth and the roots, the jawbone begins to weaken and break down. When your bone weakens, your other teeth don’t get the support they need, which means you may lose more teeth. This affects the aesthetics of your smile, and can make your cheeks look sunken in.
Why Turn to an Albuquerque Cosmetic Dentist
If you are missing teeth, don’t just assume you shouldn’t bother doing anything about it. At Heflin Family Dental, we’re committed to helping you not only feel better but improve your overall health as well. You can trust in Dr. Heflin and our incredible staff to offer you the compassionate and comprehensive care you need. Contact us today to and schedule an appointment to find out if implant bridgework or partial dentures might be right for you!