Did you lose a tooth recently? As an adult, the loss of a tooth can be a troubling occurrence, one that raises many more questions. “Are my other teeth in jeopardy? How is my smile going to function? Will I ever be able to smile confidently again?” These are just a few of the many concerns a person can have after tooth loss, whether due to decay, infection, gum disease or even trauma. Fortunately, prosthetic dentistry can address all these concerns and more. Plus, for patients that choose dental implants, it is possible to smile confidently and chew comfortably even after tooth loss!
The Many Unique Benefits of Dental Implants
Dentures and dental bridges are common forms of prosthetic dentistry, but they are not the only option. In fact, dental implants provide several added benefits when compared to these other forms of prostheses.
Only dental implants help to replace both a missing tooth and the root that held it in place. This is an important distinction, because the post used to mimic the healthy tooth root both stabilizes the replacement tooth (denture, replacement crown…) and also helps supply the jaw with nutrients, which are essential to it maintaining its shape.
Without healthy tooth roots, the jaw can begin to shrink over time, causing changes in the smile’s alignment, and also noticeable differences to one’s entire facial structure. Dental implants help to prevent these changes, while also creating added security and comfort while chewing.
For these reasons, patients whose smiles are healthy enough to support a dental implant, often choose them to help complete their smile after tooth loss. Particularly in the case of several missing teeth, it is wise to speak with your dentist about how dental implants, which can be used to anchor partial dentures, could help protect your smile!
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.