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Dental Implants
If you’re missing a tooth, you have two options: replace it or
don’t. If you don’t replace your tooth, you face all kinds of
complications with your diet and appearance, and recent studies show that a
missing tooth greatly increases your chances of losing more teeth. There are
several options available for replacing a missing tooth. Research shows that
dental implants are the only sure way to prevent jawbone deterioration and
additional tooth loss.
Why should I replace a missing tooth?
A tooth has two parts: the crown and the root. When a tooth falls out, the section
of the jaw that supported the tooth has no purpose, so it withers and
atrophies. Your remaining teeth are then supported by a weakened jaw. A missing
tooth also increases the workload of remaining teeth, and to balance the load,
teeth shift, which can cause spaces between teeth, food impaction, and tooth
decay. After about four to eight years, remaining teeth will begin to fall out
as well. Up to 19% of adjacent teeth are lost as the result of a missing tooth.
That’s five more lost teeth if you started with a full set!
What are my replacement options?
The most popular options are partials, bridges, or implants. Let’s review
them.
Removable partials have clasps that attach to surrounding
“abutment” teeth, which must carry the weight of the replacement. Because
the missing tooth's root is not replaced, the jawbone begins to atrophy. Some
people with removable partials complain of discomfort and increased tooth
sensitivity. A study conducted by the American Dental Association (ADA) shows that removable
partials actually cause patients to lose up to 30% more teeth. This option is
popular because it is the least expensive, but in the long run, patients may
actually have to spend more time and money to replace additional teeth.
Fixed bridges require reduction of abutment teeth, so that they can
be fitted with caps. The replacement tooth is secured to the caps and literally
bridges the gap between the abutment teeth. As with a partial, the missing
tooth's root is not replaced, so the jawbone begins to atrophy. Bridges usually
last about 10 years. After this time, surrounding teeth can begin to decay and
may require root canal therapy. According to the ADA, patients with fixed
bridges lose up to 10% of their remaining teeth.
Dental implants are the ideal tooth-replacement option, because
they replace the missing tooth's root as well as the crown. Dental implants do
not require support from adjacent teeth, and they keep the jawbone strong
because it has a purpose – to support the tooth's root. With dental
implants, patients do not experience increased tooth decay or sensitivity as
with bridges. Dental implants have a success rate of 95 to 98%, and can also
secure dentures, partials, or bridgework. With regular oral hygiene, dental
implants last most people for a lifetime.
To receive dental implants, you must be in good health and have adequate
bone structure. Minor pre-operatory procedures like bone and sinus grafts may
be necessary to prepare you for implant surgery. For patients who cannot
withstand traditional implants, mini dental implants provide a viable
alternative. Your dentist will evaluate your specific case to determine which
tooth option is right for your unique case.
Schedule Your Appointment
Extraordinary smiles begin with exceptional dental care. If you live near the DC metro area, call our Silver Spring or Chevy Chase general and cosmetic dentistry offices today to make an appointment with Dr. Dana Keith. We look forward to building a lasting relationships and healthy smiles with you and your family.
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