2 Reasons Not To Delay Replacing Your Lost Tooth With A Dental Implant
If you have suffered the loss of a tooth because of an extreme case of tooth decay or severe dental trauma, the tooth can be replaced by a dental implant.
A dental implant is actually a metal rod or screw that is drilled into the bone of the jaw. The metal is generally titanium, which is biocompatible, so it does not react with the other chemicals of the body. The implant screw or rod fuses with the bone of the jaw to firmly connect and become stabilized in its position. This fusion, which normally occurs over a span of two to four months, is called osseointegration.
If you elect to have a dental implant installed to replace your lost tooth, it is best to do so as soon as possible. Here are two reasons why:
Shifting of the Teeth
Once a tooth is lost, the space that remains in your mouth can cause your other teeth to migrate. The movement of the teeth generally occurs over a long period, but it can start as soon as the space in the mouth becomes available.
This dental migration can quickly result in misalignment. Although a person may have had straight teeth before the tooth was lost, if the tooth is not soon replaced, the patient may require braces or other orthodontic appliances to straighten the teeth. Nevertheless, straightening the teeth should probably be performed after the lost tooth is replaced since the teeth will have a tendency to shift as long as the gap in the mouth remains.
Protection of Jaw Bone Density
The density of the jaw bone is important. Not only does it help hold teeth in place by securing them in their sockets. It also provides the underlying structure of the face. As the jawbone atrophies or disintegrates, the fullness of the face can be lost. This results in a sunken, hollow facial appearance.
The production of new jawbone cells is stimulated by bite pressure that is transferred to the bone as the patient chews or bites. Since a dental implant replaces the root of a tooth, the jawbone still receives the bite pressure needed to promote the production of new cells.
If you have lost a tooth and are considering a dental implant, schedule an appointment with a dentist in your area, like Bonnie Marshall S, as soon as possible. He or she can assess your condition and review your dental and medical history to determine whether or not a dental implant is a suitable option are you.
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