People seem to think that losing a tooth is unusual but it’s not. Dentists fight to save teeth every day but sometimes we just can’t win the battle. Almost 70% of adults between the ages of 35 and 44 have lost at least one permanent tooth and even more surprising, at age 74 more than a quarter of the people have lost ALL of their teeth.  Reasons for the loss vary – tooth decay, accidents, gum disease, excessive wear (bruxism or tooth grinding),  or periodontal disease. 

No matter the reason for the loss it is important to replace missing teeth as soon as possible. When a tooth is removed it affects more than the appearance of your smile.  Other teeth will begin to shift in your mouth making brushing and flossing more difficult.  The jaw bone that once anchored the tooth is no longer needed in that area and begins to recede.  Chewing food may become more difficult causing nutrition problems, especially for older patients.

How to Replace a Lost Tooth:

Dental Implants, Dental Bridges and Removable Appliances  are all common choices.  What is the best choice? That will depend upon your oral health and the number and placement of the missing teeth.  For most people, the strongest, most durable replacement option is the dental implant.

Dental implants are small titanium screws that act as an artificial tooth root.  The implant is placed in your jaw bone and the bone and surrounding tissue grow around the implant and hold it in place.  A special dental crown is attached to the implant for a natural looking and feeling tooth replacement.  Implants are used to replace just one missing tooth or can be used to replace many.

Dental implants can even be used to anchor full dentures — no more slipping. The beauty of the dental implant is that it acts and feels just like a real tooth so the patient does not have to change their eating or hygiene habits.

Please contact Dr. Mark Levy at StoneRidge Dental Care in Columbus, OH  at 614-476-6696 today for more information about tooth replacement using dental implants, bridges or removable appliances.