The term, tooth loss, can seem pretty straightforward at first glance. However, the specifics surrounding your tooth loss and replacement can be vastly different than those of other people, and this may impact the details of your smile restoration plan. For many people who experience tooth loss, the best solution for addressing it is by having one or more dental implant posts placed to restore their lost teeth roots. Yet, this can have different implications depending on the state of your oral health, the presence of a traditional bridge or denture, and other factors surrounding your tooth loss.
Following a tooth extraction procedure
When you think of tooth loss, it’s natural to envision losing the tooth, such as it being knocked out, or falling out due to a severe oral health concern. However, for some people, removing the natural tooth structure is a deliberate process designed to help prevent more extensive oral health problems developing from the compromised tooth’s presence. Tooth extraction is only a viable suggestion when the tooth is so severely compromised that it can’t be saved. Extracting it is preferable to allowing the tooth to fall out on its own, as the extra time can lead to even more significant problems for your oral health.
After you lose one or more additional teeth
Placing a dental implant immediately after losing or extracting a tooth can be the best way to stop the loss of the tooth from having extensive consequences on the rest of your oral health. For example, conventional tooth replacements don’t come with implant posts to replace their lost teeth roots. The loss of these roots can be a leading factor in the diminishment of your jawbone following tooth loss, which increases your risks of losing more teeth in the future. If you already wear a conventional restoration to replace one or more lost teeth, but lose another, then it may be time to consider replacing your restoration with one that’s supported by dental implant posts.
When your bridge or denture needs replacement
Because of the continuous damage that the loss of a tooth root can cause, many people who wear traditional bridges and dentures are often faced with a need to have their restorations readjusted or replaced as they lose their firm grip. A shifting or moving dental restoration can be uncomfortable or even painful when you bite and chew, and can cause further harm to the oral structures that support it. Dental implants are designed to anchor your restoration in place to prevent this, and upgrading your current bridge or denture with the lifelike posts can help you avoid similar problems in the future.
Find out if dental implants are your best next step
Tooth loss isn’t always the same for everyone, but in many cases, replacing your lost teeth with dental implants is the best step you can take in restoring your smile. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA, today at 707-545-4625.