We can’t wait to start offering tooth replacement for our patients in Livonia, MI, and surrounding communities! Starting May 29th, we’re back and eager to help those suffering from tooth loss obtain full smiles again. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how dental implants and crowns address minor cases of missing teeth, and help you enjoy a better quality of life in the process!
Don’t Ignore Minor Tooth Loss
Losing a single tooth isn’t a minor issue. One lost tooth could cause surrounding teeth to drift from position, causing misalignment. Poor alignment alone increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. The missing tooth could also place pressure on the jaw joints and elevate the chances of TMJ disorder and bruxism, two jaw joint disorders linked to headaches, jaw pain, and even damaged teeth. Finally, the body will stop sending doses of calcium and phosphorus to the jawbone around the missing tooth, which means the bone structure begins to break down and the risk of further tooth loss increases!
The Dental Implant and Crown
The dental implant is a small screw-like device that is created from biocompatible titanium. We insert them into the jawbone where they act as new tooth roots, bonding with the bone tissue. This prevents the loss of jawbone tissue and preserves the rest of the teeth. We then add an abutment to the implant to secure a dental crown. The crown acts as the visible portion of your new tooth. Made from strong and durable materials, this can absorb daily bite forces and pressure, and is also created with esthetics in mind. We want it to blend with the rest of your smile seamlessly! With proper care and attention, they could last for decades, possibly even a lifetime!
Preventing Tooth Loss
To help prevent missing teeth, you should make time to brush twice a day for two minutes, when you wake up and again before bed. You also need to floss in between the teeth each night before bed too. These actions help limit plaque buildup and prevent the onset of issues like tooth decay and gum disease, which could ensure the stability of your teeth. You should also make time to see us every six months for checkup and cleaning, so we can remove plaque and keep an eye on the warning signs of possible issues that could lead to missing teeth.
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT DENTAL IMPLANTS?
Our team wants to make sure you continue to enjoy a full and stunning smile with implant dentistry. To learn more about replacing individual missing teeth, then call James Stewart, DDS, dental implant office in Livonia, MI, at (734) 425-4400. We also serve the residents of Farmington, Plymouth, Dearborn Heights, and all surrounding communities.