After losing a tooth, the adjacent teeth begin shifting around in your mouth in order to fill the space. Not only does this affect the aesthetics of your smile, but it will also change the way you bite. While this may not seem like a serious concern, it can have detrimental effects on your oral health. You may have bone loss in your jaw because there is nothing to stimulate new bone growth. Additionally, the change in your bite can put extra force on your jaw joint and may develop into TMJ disorder. In order to prevent these problems, Dr. Stark and Dr. Norden may recommend a dental implant.
This procedure not only keeps teeth from shifting, but it also improves the aesthetics of your smile. During your first visit to Derby Family Dentistry, our dentists will prepare the area by inserting a titanium post into your jaw. This will serve as the root for your tooth, and it will stimulate new bone growth as you chew. A temporary crown will be placed over the post to protect the area while it heals. Once your jaw has recovered completely, you will then return to our office, and our dentists will place a permanent crown over the tooth. In just a matter of weeks, you will have the normal function and look of your natural smile restored.
If you would like to learn more about dental implants call or visit Derby Family Dentistry today.