Have you lost some of your teeth? Your Neenah, WI, dentists, Dr. James, and Stephanie Kramer can help you fill in the gaps in your smile with dental implants. Restoring your smile offers several advantages in addition to enhancing your appearance.
4 ways tooth loss affects you
Tooth loss has a number of surprising consequences, including:
- Teeth on the Move: Other teeth may begin to drift after you lose a tooth. Unfortunately, the movement can cause teeth to overlap and may even change your bite.
- Increased Risk of Cavities: Fitting a piece of dental floss between two overlapping teeth isn't always easy. Unfortunately, if you can't floss, plaque buildup may increase your risk of tooth day.
- Weaker Jawbone: Your tooth roots exert constant pressure on your jawbone, which helps it stay strong. After the loss of one or more teeth, the bone may begin to shrink. The problem, called jawbone resorption, can cause loose teeth and sagging facial muscles.
- Poor Nutrition: Although even one missing tooth can make biting and chewing difficult, poor nutrition is more likely to occur if you've lost multiple teeth. If you find it difficult to chew meat, poultry, fruit, or vegetables, you may decide to give up those foods in favor of softer choices. Unfortunately, the change to your diet may mean that you don't receive the nutrients you need for good health.
Dental implants help you avoid the negative consequences of tooth loss
Dental implants replace both the roots and crowns (tops) of missing teeth. Implants are titanium posts that serve as synthetic roots when they're placed in openings made in your jawbone. The posts bond to your bone and become securely attached to the jawbone in just three to six months.
Artificial crowns are connected to the tops of implants with small screw-like connectors, creating brand new teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Your crowns are created from an impression of your mouth made during a visit to the Neenah dental office.
Implants aren't just a good idea if you've lost one tooth. They also offer an alternative to removable dentures. Implant-supported dentures provide excellent biting power and comfort and can be used whether you've had dentures for years or expect to lose your teeth soon.
Rebuild your smile with dental implants! Call your dentists in Neenah, WI, Drs. James and Stephanie Kramer, at (920) 725-2533 to schedule an appointment. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the office is currently only open for emergency appointments.