Tooth loss is an unfortunate but common problem in the United States. According to the American College of Prosthodontists, as many as 120 million American adults are missing at least one tooth, and 36 million are missing all of their natural teeth. Tooth loss doesn’t just ruin your smile; it has many negative side effects, from poor nutrition and impaired speech to increased risk of developing gum disease.
Dental implants are a great option to improve your smile and reverse the side effects of tooth loss. Our dentists offer a range of general and cosmetic dentistry services like dental implants at Lancaster Dental Care Associates in Lancaster, California.
Depending on the location of the missing tooth/teeth, you may have trouble pronouncing certain words. Even if you’ve always had clear speech, losing one or more teeth can make it sound like you’ve suddenly developed a lisp overnight, or even like you have a different accent.
Impaired speech can add an additional layer of stress, trauma, embarrassment, and anxiety to an already difficult situation, especially at work. Dental implants improve your speech by closing the gaps in your smile. Once the gaps between your teeth are closed, your speech will return to normal.
Slurring and difficulty pronouncing certain words is just one of the negative side effects of tooth loss. Missing teeth can also cause poor nutrition and increase your risk of developing gum disease and other oral health problems in the future.
Dental implants consist of two parts: the implant, which functions like a prosthetic root, and the cosmetic crown. Not only does the implant secure the crown in place just like a natural tooth, but it also helps to prevent bone loss in your gums. Dental implants can replace a single tooth, or secure a set of full or partial dentures, so they work for any stage of tooth loss.
Once in place, implants feel and function just like your natural teeth, so you can get back to your normal diet, lifestyle, and routine after the adjustment period. The implant process generally takes a little longer from start to finish than other dental restorations, but they were designed to be a long-term and more permanent solution to tooth loss.
If you’re an adult in good health and have enough bone density to support an implant, dental implants may be a good tooth replacement option for you.
For more information about dental implants and to find out if they’re right for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Lancaster, California.
