DO YOU NEED A SOLUTION FOR MISSING TEETH? DR. SALEEM OFFERS QUALITY DENTAL IMPLANT TREATMENT

When a child loses a tooth it’s a very big deal. Photos are taken, grandparents are called, and the tooth fairy plays a visit. However, when an adult loses a tooth, the fanfare is replaced by apprehension and fear. Adult tooth loss is common; however, many patients aren’t sure what solutions exist to replace their missing teeth. With Dr. Adnan Saleem of Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics in Carrollton, TX, you can receive dental implant treatment to replace your missing tooth, or teeth, and restore your smile.

HOW DO ADULTS LOSE A TOOTH?

Most patients believe that their adult teeth are permanent when, in fact, they can be lost for several reasons, including:

• Decay: Cavities are typically detected during a dental exam or through x-rays of the mouth. When a cavity is detected early, it can easily be fixed with a dental filling. The longer a cavity goes undetected, the more invasive the dental procedure becomes. Over time, it can lead to advanced weakening of the tooth which may make it necessary to extract the tooth.
• Gum disease. Gum (periodontal) disease attacks the foundation of teeth by inflammation of gingiva, bone and periodontium. If not treated it can lead to teeth moving, abscess and potential teeth loss
• Clenching and grinding of teeth: Significant population of people is suffering from clenching and grinding of teeth which lead to teeth wear, crack, sensitivity etc. Simple solution of wearing night guard or treating the alignment of teeth can help reduce the damage and possible teeth loss
• Trauma to the mouth: Accidents happen to adults and children. An accident that occurs to the face or mouth, such as a fall, being hit with a foul ball at a little league game, or a car accident can knock out a tooth.

DO I NEED TO REPLACE MY TOOTH?

When a tooth is lost, particularly when it’s a tooth that is not visible, some patients will question if they need to replace the tooth. Dr. Saleem urges patients to consider their replacement options for both the health of the mouth and the appearance of their smiles. There are many benefits to replacing a missing tooth, such as:

• Appearance: While a gap in the smile is cute for seven-year-olds, it can make adults feel self-conscious about their appearance. Many will begin to hide their smile behind a hand or closed lips. Over time this can begin to affect their personal and professional relationships.
• Health of the mouth: When a tooth is lost, the jawbone doesn’t receive the necessary stimulation to promote bone density and health. This can lead to loss of bone density, which can cause the face to begin to sag. The remaining teeth will begin to shift out of place, creating misalignment or pockets where food and bacteria can become trapped, leading to future problems.

WHAT ARE MY REPLACEMENT TOOTH OPTIONS?

There are several options for replacing a missing tooth. Dentures can be used for several missing teeth or an entire upper or lower arch of teeth. Crown and bridge appliances can also be used in which the replacement teeth will fit into place between the remaining teeth. However, for patients who are looking for a nearly permanent, stable, and functional solution dental implants are the best option.

WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS?

Simply stated, a dental implant is a replacement tooth root. A small metal rod is inserted into the jawbone. Once inserted the jawbone will fuse to the metal rod, making it strong and sturdy. Then a crown, or a replacement tooth, is created and will be attached to an abutment on the post. The tooth is custom created to be an exact match, in shade and shape, to your natural teeth. Once complete, no one will ever need to know that the tooth is a replacement and not a natural tooth.

For most patients, the dental implant is permanent. Because it fuses with the bone and becomes part of the mouth, it is stable and secure. This makes it a long-term solution. Many patients find the ultimate benefit of the implant in that it is not removable. Unlike dentures that snap in and out, the implant is a constant piece in the patient’s mouth. However, because the process includes time for the jawbone to heal, it does take several weeks or months to complete.

While dental implants are an investment, many patients find that they are worth it because of their long lifespan and their durability. Once the bone grows around the implant and the tooth is attached, it is as stable as a natural tooth. Patients don’t need to give up their favorite foods or avoid public speaking, the tooth is solid and functions exactly like the natural teeth.

LEARN MORE

Dr. Saleem has been helping patients achieve and keep beautiful smiles for many years. For more information about dentures or other tooth replacement options, call our office today at (972) 388-3320.

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