The worrisome thing about tooth loss is that it can affect virtually anyone, and for a wide variety of reasons. However, the good thing is that, even if you fail to prevent it, you can still prevent the potentially devastating consequences of tooth loss with the right dental prosthesis. For patients in Encinitas/San Diego, that prosthesis is often a dental implant-supported restoration, which replaces every portion of your lost tooth, including its root.

1. It matters that you replace the tooth

The most important thing to know if you’ve suffered tooth loss is that replacing them is important, even if it’s just one tooth. That’s because the loss can affect nearly every aspect of your oral health, from the alignment and function of your remaining teeth to the health and integrity of your jawbone structure, and much more. With dental implants, you can replace the crown and root of your lost tooth to  prevent your other teeth and oral structures from suffering the loss.

2. Implant posts can support it better

While there are many options for replacing lost teeth, the most successful prostheses are usually those that are supported by one or more dental implant posts. The implants are designed to mimic healthy, natural teeth roots and are placed into your jawbone, which heals to the surfaces of your implant posts. This recreates the supportive foundation that healthy roots provide your natural teeth, reestablishing your smile’s appearance, your bite’s function, and the simulation your jawbone needs to remain healthy.

3. You may still be at risk for tooth loss

Depending on why you’ve experienced tooth loss and how long ago, you may still be at a heightened risk of losing more teeth even if you replace those that are already missing. For example, if you have severe gum disease (or periodontitis), then your periodontal tissues and jawbone structure may still be eroding. If you’ve lost teeth long ago, then your jawbone may have grown weaker and your tooth loss risks higher. Before replacing your lost teeth, your periodontist will thoroughly examine your oral health to ensure that your risks of further tooth loss are under control.

If you’ve lost a tooth, then call us today

Tooth loss can affect almost anyone, but with the right care and maintenance, most patients can minimize the consequences of it. For more information, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kania by calling her periodontal office in Encinitas/San Diego, CA, at (760) 642-0711.