The biggest consequence of losing one or more teeth might seem like the visual effect it has on your smile. For many patients, this effect can be significant and embarrassing enough to be the sole reason they seek to replace their lost teeth. However, at our Woodland Hills, CA, dental office, we offer solutions that address much more than just the appearance of your smile. For example, with one or more dental implants, we can also address the many other effects of tooth loss that make it such a big deal to your smile and oral health.
Your other teeth react poorly
You may not notice at first, but after losing one or more teeth, those that remain will begin to react to the loss. Their reactions are largely negative, such as shifting toward the gap or gaps in your smile due to the imbalance in your bite pressure. This shifting can make the rest of your bite even further imbalanced, causing your remaining teeth to experience uneven, often excessive bite pressure. If you don’t replace your lost teeth as soon as possible, you may also need additional treatment to repair any existing tooth damage as part of your smile restoration plan.
The effects of the loss grow worse
The longer you wait to address the loss of your teeth, the greater the impact will be on your smile and oral health. For example, in addition to the increasing tooth damage and risks to your healthy tooth structure, losing teeth roots can also have a significant impact on the health and integrity of your jawbone structure. Your teeth roots are an essential part of the nutrient flow to your jawbone. Every time you bite and chew, they stimulate the jawbone so your body knows to send it ample nutrition. Long-term, the reduced stimulation can lead to the loss of your jawbone’s mass and density, and as a result, an increased risk of losing more teeth.
Not all tooth replacement options are equal
Replacing your lost teeth is the only way to address the consequences of tooth loss, but it matters just how you choose to replace them. For patients who qualify, the most effective solution is often to replace the lost teeth and their roots with the help of dental implant posts. Made from biocompatible titanium, dental implants are placed in your jawbone where your lost teeth roots once rested. The implants mimic the support that roots provide your healthy, natural teeth, including the stimulation that’s vital to promoting a healthy flow of nutrients to your jawbone and remaining natural teeth.
Learn how to deal with tooth loss
Losing one or more teeth is a big deal, but with the help of one or more dental implant posts, we can help you preserve the rest of your healthy, natural smile. For more information, schedule a consultation by calling Woodland Hills Dental Arts in Woodland Hills, CA today at 818-347-5124.