San Francisco dentist explains the costs of not replacing your missing teeth with dental implants
Losing a tooth is a dental situation that many adults face at some point in their lives. Whether it’s after an accident or trauma to the mouth, or caused by tooth decay or gum disease, our adult teeth are not always permanent. Dr. Leo Arellano in San Francisco understands that the loss of a tooth can be overwhelming, especially if it’s a tooth that’s visible when you smile. It’s important to talk to your dentist about replacement options that will help keep your mouth healthy and your smile bright.
Do I need to replace my tooth?
To understand the importance of replacing a tooth, you must first know that your teeth and gums work together as a team to give you a happy and healthy smile. When a tooth is lost, the bone structure around that tooth begins to deteriorate because it’s no longer being stimulated. Over time, the jawbone will start to shrink, surrounding teeth may loosen, and the gums will become vulnerable to disease. Ultimately, the cost of not addressing a missing tooth could be far greater than the investment into a replacing tooth.
What are my replacement tooth options?
There are several ways that you can replace a missing tooth, including dentures, bridges, and dental implants. Many patients find that dental implants are the best choice because they are the most permanent solution. While other options provide a new tooth, the dental implant also provides a new tooth root. This gives added stability, prevents the deterioration of the jawbone, and keeps other teeth from shifting out of place. Further, dental implants provide the most natural looking appearance and gives patients the confidence to smile brightly, speak clearly, and eat their favorite foods.
Dental implants are a great option for replacing missing teeth. For more information, call 415-881-4343.