In the United States, more than 150 million people have at least one missing tooth, and over 1 million of these individuals each year opt for dental implants to replace them. Implants are artificial tooth roots that anchor prosthetic tooth replacements, including crowns, bridges, and even dentures.
But what happens if you don’t replace a damaged tooth? Cosmetic and general dentistry specialist Kenn Kakosian, DDS, PhD, at DentAlign NYC offers this list of potential concerns and alternative treatments.
Damaged teeth, whether they’re the result of decay or trauma, may eventually become loose or fall out on their own. The following dental issues are potential concerns, and we explain how dental implants help you avoid these oral health problems.
A damaged tooth that loosens or falls out creates a gap, and adjacent teeth can shift toward the open space. This can misalign your bite, create crooked teeth, and contribute to an imperfect smile. The prosthetic tooth or teeth that attach to a dental implant post keep the rest of your teeth in line.
Bone loss is a common consequence of missing permanent teeth that go untreated. Dental implants act like tooth roots that stimulate your jawbone, preserving the affected tissue, maintaining the integrity of bone and facial structures, and reducing your risk of further bone loss.
Poor enunciation is a complication that one or more missing teeth can cause. Replacing a damaged or missing permanent tooth with a dental implant can promote clearer speech and more effective communication.
Damaged, loose, or missing permanent teeth can lead to difficult or painful chewing. Dental implants are strong, beautiful, and long-lasting, restoring chewing functionality.
Your facial contours could change because of tooth or jawbone loss. For example, your face might appear more sunken or older than you’d like because of oral health challenges. Seeking prompt treatment from Dr. Kakosian is a simple solution.
Untreated damaged or missing teeth can diminish the look of even the most gorgeous smile. Restorative treatment — whether dental implants or other procedures — at DentAlign NYC can help you maintain your smile’s beauty for a lifetime.
Not everyone with tooth damage requires extraction or replacement with dental implants. With less-severe damage, you could be a candidate for:
Our team also offers orthodontic treatment using Invisalign® clear aligners to fix tooth misalignment without wires or brackets.
To get an evaluation of your tooth damage and to find out if you need a dental implant or other dental services, see Dr. Kakosian and the team at DentAlign NYC. Contact us today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.
