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Missing teeth can really take a toll on your health and overall self-confidence. When teeth are lost, your health may suffer the consequences. With tooth loss you also take on an "older" appearance, which can have a negative effect on your self-esteem and quality of life. Luckily there are solutions to tooth loss, and in many cases, you can restore your missing teeth and regain a smile that looks and feels just like your natural teeth. Talk to your dentist and find out which treatment is right for you. Dental implants are one of the most advanced solutions available to replace missing teeth today and may be the permanent answer to your tooth loss problems. Tooth loss and its Repercussions Not only can tooth loss impact your appearance, it can also have negative effects on your health. Some common consequences of missing teeth include: * Structural change in jaw
* Shifting of adjacent teeth into gap left by missing tooth/teeth
* Change in facial contour
* Difficulty chewing and biting foods
* Speech problems
* Poor oral health
* Change in person's self-confidence Treating Tooth loss with Implants Dentists offer many methods for treating tooth loss including dentures and bridges, but one of the most effective is the dental implant. With dental implants, an artificial tooth root is permanently placed into the jaw, replacing the missing tooth. Implants look and function just like normal teeth, making it hard to notice the difference between the implant and your natural smile. Implants offer a solution to many of the repercussions of tooth loss. They help preserve the integrity of facial structures, and they do not compromise the health of adjacent teeth. Implants offer convenient oral hygiene, an improved appearance, and ultimately an enhanced self-esteem and quality of life. Are You a Candidate for Implants?
To find out if implants are your answer to missing teeth, talk to your Richmond dentist. To determine if dental implants are right for you, your dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth and gums, as well as evaluating the bone density and quantity. This may involve x-rays and computer tomography scans (CT scans) to ensure there is sufficient bone structure for placing the implant, or implants, and to determine exactly where the implant should be placed. Based on the condition of your oral tissues, oral hygiene and personal habits, and commitment to follow aftercare instructions, your dentist will advise you of the most appropriate treatment plan. People who smoke, have existing medical conditions, or have experienced bone loss may need to seek alternate treatment. Whether you're missing teeth from age, trauma, gum disease or poor oral hygiene, with implants, you can regain your smile and your health. Find out if implants are right for you by talking to your dentist in Richmond today.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading Richmond cosmetic dentist, Dr. Robert Steadman. Since graduating from the Medical College of Virginia School of Dentistry, Dr. Steadman has been in private practice for 20 years. He has also taught part-time at MCV Dental School, lectured statewide, and written articles for dental journals on topics such as Richmond teeth whitening.
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