Tooth loss may be common, but many of the facts surrounding it aren’t as thoroughly understood as they should be. For instance, many people recognize that tooth loss is a possibility in their future, but some believe it’s inevitable while others think the possibility is too obscure to take seriously. Another misconception about tooth loss is that, once it occurs, the rest of your teeth and oral structures are doomed to the suffer the consequences over the coming years. Today, we take a closer look at tooth loss, including what it actually means for your smile, and why dental implants are often the best solution for helping you avoid the consequences.

You lose more than you see

Many of the consequences of tooth loss that people often worry about most involve the visible effects of the loss. For instance, it makes their smile appear less healthy and less cosmetically appealing, not to mention impacting the way your teeth meet when you bite and chew. However, the severe long-term consequences of tooth loss typically result from the absence of the tooth’s root, which used to rest within your jawbone structure. The loss of this root can negatively impact the amount of stimulation that occurs when you bite and chew your food, which is essential to the health and integrity of your jawbone structure.

Traditional restorations don’t have roots

Unfortunately, traditional restorations designed to replace lost teeth don’t come with the same type of supportive structures – i.e., roots – as your healthy, natural teeth do. Because of this, their ability to fully restore your smile can be limited. For example, conventional dental bridges rely on crowns that are bonded to nearby teeth for support, while partial dentures come with small, hidden clasps to keep them stable. By contrast, dental implants can provide a solution to replace your lost teeth roots, thereby restoring the stimulation they provide while also offering improved comfort and stability for your restoration.

Dental implants make your restoration better

While most conventional dental bridges and dentures are designed to visibly mimic the healthy, natural versions of your lost teeth, the lack of root-like support can limit their ability to function as reliably and comfortably. With the support of dental implants, custom restorations can restore more of your bite’s function without becoming worn down or damaged, and without shifting uncomfortably after losing its grip.

Learn about tooth loss and dental implants

Tooth loss can affect your smile and oral health in more ways than you might see, and only dental implants can help you address them by replacing your lost teeth roots. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling the Dental Centre of Conroe in Conroe, TX, today at (936) 441-4600.