Dec
The potential loss of a tooth is not something people tend to think about, but it does happen far more often than most people realize. Approximately 69 percent of adults will have lost at least one permanent tooth by the age of 44. The loss of a tooth can have a significant impact on a person’s self-confidence, personal relationships, and career. Dr. McMillan can restore a lost tooth with a dental bridge or a zirconium dental implant in their Cary or Cornelius offices. This can restore the aesthetics of the smile and protect oral health.
A missing tooth can damage far more that the aesthetics of the smile, if it is not replaced with a dental restoration, it can cause other dental problems. Your teeth rely on each other to stay in proper alignment, and when one is missing, it can cause the others to begin shifting. This can result in problems such as the formation of pockets that trap plaque, causing cavities and possible gum disease. As the teeth shift, they can also cause problems with your bite, which can make chewing difficult and can result in digestion problem. As your teeth continue to shift, they can become loose, resulting in the loss of more teeth.
Dental implants are a popular restoration option. A small zirconium rod is implanted in the jawbone during a simple surgery. Most patients only require local anesthetic and compare the recovery to having had a tooth extracted. The zirconium implant fuses to the jawbone, which typically takes about six months, and then the restoration can be completed with a dental crown.
An alternative restoration option is a fixed dental bridge. This consist of two crowns with an artificial tooth (pontic) in-between them. The crowns are placed on the teeth on each side of the gap. The placement of a dental bridge can normally be completed in two appointments.
Dr. McMillan will discuss your restoration options with you, and help you make an educated decision as to what is best for your individual needs and health. Both options can provide patients with natural smiles.
A missing tooth can have a negative impact on all areas of your life and health, call the Holistic Dental Centers today and schedule an appointment to discuss your restoration options with Dr. McMillan. Call (919) 865-0700 to make an appointment at the Cary office or (704) 765-3150 if the Cornelius office is more convenient.