When we see a patient with a missing tooth, we may recommend implant dentistry. We want to help our Tucson, AZ, patients enjoy healthy smiles, offering replacement options that last for decades with proper care and attention. What makes dental implants so great for missing tooth replacement? When should you talk to your dentist about your lost teeth?

The Health Risks of Tooth Loss

How does losing a tooth impact our oral health? For one, the gap in your smile may cause surrounding teeth to drift from position, leading to misalignment. Others may experience pressure on the jaw joints due to missing teeth, which could lead to TMJ disorder and bruxism. Since the body will no longer send doses of key nutrients to the jawbone around a lost tooth, the bone tissue itself deteriorates. For many, this means further tooth loss and in extreme cases, a prematurely aged appearance. However, by addressing your tooth loss quickly, even if you have only one missing tooth, you may avoid these common complications.

The Benefits of Implant Dentistry

First, a dental implant is made from titanium, which is biocompatible. Meaning, your body will see the dental implant as a new tooth root and supply the jawbone with doses of calcium and phosphorus, preserving the bone tissue and preventing further tooth loss. This also helps ensure your new tooth lasts for many years, decades even, with proper care and attention. Once we attach the restoration, which addresses the visible part of your tooth, the dental implant will look natural and blend with your smile, offering a strong and secure solution to tooth loss.

Preparing Your Smile

We first need to assess your candidacy. We will look at your jawbone tissue to make sure you haven’t lost enough to threaten the placement of a new tooth. If so, we may prescribe a bone grafting procedure before moving forward. We also need to look for the presence of gum disease. Managing the disease prevents periodontitis, which in turn prevents implant failure. We then use digital technology to plan the placement area and add the new tooth root with an oral surgical procedure. After the area heals, we complete the tooth with a custom-made restoration. If you have any questions about improving oral health and addressing one or more missing teeth, then please contact our team today.

Have You Lost a Natural Tooth?

Employing implant dentistry means offering our patients strong and durable replacement options for missing teeth. To learn more about our lifelike dental implants, schedule a consultation with your dentist by calling Dr. Newman’s office in Tucson, AZ, today at 520-296-5439. We’re conveniently located inside the Grant Road Professional Plaza, and proudly welcome the residents of all surrounding communities.