There are numerous reasons why an adult may be missing a tooth. For many people, having a missing tooth impacts their self-image and self-esteem. They may feel the missing tooth is noticeable to others and affects how others perceive them.
A missing tooth does not only impact appearance. Having a missing tooth affects jaw support, chewing food, and the position and stability of surrounding teeth. Patients do have several options to choose from if they decide to replace the missing tooth. Depending on the situation, a dental professional will recommend a bridge, a partial denture, or an implant.
Patients often don’t realize that a missing tooth can affect the jaw, especially in the long term. Over time, the bone in the jaw will deteriorate. This not only affects the appearance but can also weaken the surrounding teeth as the bone resorbs.
When a tooth is missing, the surrounding teeth can shift out of their normal places. The longer the missing tooth is gone, the further the nearby teeth will shift. This makes it more difficult to correct. An implant will prevent tooth shift and bone resorption. It also helps maintain healthy gums. A partial bridge can damage the gums and nearby teeth over time.
A tooth implant requires a small surgery to place the implant in the jaw. The bone will grow and bond with the implant. The dental professional installs a temporary cap during this process. Once the patient is ready, the dental professional will place a more permanent crown. Some patients may be able to skip the temporary cap.
A partial bridge only lasts five to seven years, but a dental implant can last 15 years or more. A dental implant feels natural, and patients might even forget they have it. Also, while a single tooth replacement dental implant may cost more upfront, patients often save money over time since it lasts for so long. Many insurance plans cover some or all of the cost.
A single tooth replacement dental implant is easier to clean at home as part of a person’s normal hygiene routine. A person with a dental implant can easily care for the implant in a similar way to their other teeth.
A partial bridge is more difficult to keep clean. Bacteria can accumulate if the cement holding the bridge deteriorates. The bridge can also change and become more noticeable over time, looking less natural. Bridges also cause more cavities and affect surrounding gum health.
Oral health can affect overall health. It also affects how we see ourselves and how comfortable we are in the world. Your dental professional can go over all options to determine if a dental implant is the right decision for you. The doctors at Oral Surgical Associates in Missoula and Hamilton, Montana, have the expertise to help. To schedule an appointment with us, call our office at (406) 282-8768 today.