Posted

Is missing a tooth harmful to my oral health?

If you suffer from a missing tooth, you have probably experienced the discomfort of eating tougher foods, or the adjustment period for your speech. However, the problem with missing teeth does not stop at difficulty with eating and speaking. In fact, missing teeth create a domino effect of oral health problems.

What happens if I do not replace a missing tooth?

When a tooth does not hold its place in an arch, the surrounding teeth drift out of correct placement. Each of these teeth are attempting to replace the function of the tooth that was there before. When these remaining teeth move, it creates malocclusion, or a bad bite. Your jawbone also suffers from missing teeth. The alveolar bone needs chewing stimulation from each tooth to promote healthy bone regeneration and growth. Without the tooth attached to the jaw, the bone does not receive chewing stimulation, and the tissue deteriorates.

Why are dental implants better than dentures?

Dental implants offer a level of stability and discretion that dentures cannot. Because dental implants are fused to the jawbone, the restoration remains stable and moves with the natural movement of the jaw. This allows patients to chew and speak as if the dental implant is a natural tooth. Dentures rest on top of the gum line, creating problems with slipping and falling out. Dental implants allow patients to perform oral hygiene more easily, since the implant can be cleaned just like a natural tooth. Dentures must be regularly removed and placed in cleaning solutions.

Is the dental implant procedure painful?

Dr. Jones and our staff make every effort to make your implant procedure is as comfortable as possible. We use sedation methods to completely numb the area and to help you feel at ease. Nitrous oxide is a good option for patients with dental fears or patients who need help feeling relaxed. Dental implant procedures are safe, and the restorations have a remarkably high success rate.

Dr. S. Blair Jones recommends protecting your oral health by replacing missing teeth. Mansfield Dental Associates is committed to helping you prevent malocclusion, alveolar atrophy, and tooth decay.  For more information about how to reclaim your tooth function, contact our Mansfield dentist office at (817) 473-6227  to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve the communities of Mansfield, Burleson, Kennedale, Midlothian, Cedar Hill, Desoto, and the greater Fort Worth, Arlington, and Grand Prairie.