If you have lost one or more of your teeth, you know how difficult the situation can be. Not only does adjusting to the new gap in your smile affect your appearance, but losing a tooth can have a significant impact on your oral health as well. This is because the alignment of your bite becomes altered and can accelerate wear and tear on remaining teeth that take disproportionate force when you chew. Because your enamel may wear away more quickly, you become susceptible to tooth decay and possible gum disease. As your jaw moves in awkward ways to fit your new bite, you can develop stress in the muscles of your face and decrease the quality of your sleep. To prevent these complications, receiving a restoration for your lost tooth can help you restore your bite and provide the appearance of a full smile!
At your Ankeny, IA dentist, we can place a dental implant to secure a restoration and provide important functional and esthetic benefits. Other patients may benefit from the support of a dental bridge for their lost tooth. Both treatments help halt the impact of dental loss and can return the self-confidence you feel when showing off a healthy grin!
Dental Implants Replace Missing Teeth
When you lose a tooth, you lose the roots that secure it in your jawbone and provide an important stimulative connection to your nervous system. The force of your bite normally signals the brain to provide nutrients for continued jawbone health, but the bone can begin to deteriorate when you lose your root. A dental implant can return this signal with placement of a titanium post directly into your jaw. The post allows for placement of a restoration above the gumline that can return your bite and transfer its force into your new implant post.
The Benefits Of A Dental Bridge
A dental bridge allows you to replace a missing tooth and prevent possible shifting of neighboring teeth. When you lose a tooth, remaining teeth may drift into the open area and cause significant functional complications as they lose support of the missing member. A bridge prevents this drift by connecting to crowns placed on teeth on either side of your gap. To return a lifelike appearance, our team will take careful measurements of your mouth to create your custom restoration.
Speak With Your Ankeny, IA Dentist And Discuss Options For Replacing A Lost Tooth!
Restoring your full smile can prevent future complications to your oral health and return pride in your appearance after losing a tooth. Treatments such as dental implants and bridges return stability to your bite when you sit down for a meal. For more information on tooth replacement, schedule an appointment with our Ankeny, IA dentist at 515-207-6182. We also serve patients who live in Alleman, Elkhart, Bondurant, and any other surrounding community!
