You had a tooth removed years ago. You have been living with missing teeth ever since. Is there still time to consider dental implants? Every patient is different, but there are still definitely options to replace your missing teeth. First, consider what caused your tooth loss.
* Infection- Was there a buildup of bacteria in or around the tooth? This bacteria can enter the gumline and destroy the tissue that support your tooth.
* Disease- Was there a complication genetically that caused your teeth to degrade?
* Trauma- Did something physically damage your teeth or jaw?
Here is something not a lot of patients consider-have you lost more teeth since your initial extraction? Living with missing teeth creates a scenario where you are more prone to lose more teeth. Your jaw is lacking stimulation deep in the bone, which allows the tissue to constrict. This can fundamentally affect the way the jaw is shaped; causing it to shrink, your jaw to change, and your face to look different. It also makes your more prone to dental infections, which are the leading cause of tooth loss. Your gums are exposed, providing bacteria and decaying food particles and direct path into your gumline.
What are the options for tooth replacement years after extraction?
Dental Implants- Dental Implants are the premiere selection due to their versatility and durability. Dental Implants are inserted and anchored into the supporting jaw structure. When this happens, they stimulate the osteoblasts of the jaw, which activates the bone and gum tissues. They grow to fuse with the implant, fundamentally making them just like original teeth. They can be made of various strong and tooth like materials, and they can be layered with porcelain to match any look. The only downside to dental implants is the requirement of strong jaw bone material.
* If it has been some time since your extraction, and your dentist expresses doubt in the strength of your jaw bone, bone grafting may be an option. Similarly to the implant procedure, a piece of healthy bone is surgically grafted to the affected area. Over time the tissues are stimulated and fused, known as osseointegration. After a time of recovery, the new jaw structure becomes strong enough to support a dental implant.
Bridges- Dental bridges only require two other healthy teeth. If your missing teeth have other healthy tooth material to attach to, a bridge can be used to fill in the spacing and replace the missing teeth. One to three missing teeth seems to be the sweet spot for a bridge, but it will depend on what your dentist recommends.
Dentures- If you require a lot of teeth replaced, a whole row of dentures may be the best solution. They can be anchored into your jaw, or adhered and removed whenever. The option is yours, and only you and your dental care professional know what the right choice is for you.
You have waited long enough, make an appointment with your dentist today. Get a thorough examination, a proper cleaning and ask for a consultation on what replacement options make sense.