Tooth Replacement – Benefits of Implants

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When a tooth is missing an implant can be a great choice for replacing it.  An implant is a small titanium post that replaces the roots of a missing tooth and supports a custom made crown.

An implant can prevent a chain reaction of problems including:

• Loss of jawbone
• Shifting teeth
• Difficulty keeping teeth clean
• Grinding and clenching
• Painful jaw joints

Teeth transmit chewing forces through their roots to the jawbone.  And this provides the stimulation bone needs to stay healthy so when a tooth is missing the jawbone around the area begins to shrink along with surrounding gums.

A missing tooth also changes the biting forces on teeth around the space.  Neighboring teeth begin to shift and the opposing tooth begins to extrude out of it’s socket.  These changes create places around the teeth that are hard to keep clean so plaque and bacteria quickly accumulate.  This accumulation can cause tooth decay and periodontal disease.  Changes in the bite can also put improper chewing forces on the shifted teeth and this may lead to grinding and clenching and painful problems with your jaw joint, the TMJ.

To determine if an implant is right for you we’ll do a thorough exam which will include:

• Recording your medical history
• Performing a visual exam to check the health of your teeth and gums
• Taking panagraphic or panoramic exrays and possibly ct scans to check the health of your jaw bone
• Taking impressions and bite registrations to create an accurate model of your mouth

An implant with a crown replaces a missing tooth, and it’s a great way to keep your jaw bone healthy, maintain a stable bite and restore your beautiful smile.