Timing is an important consideration in just about everything in life, including dental implants. In fact, the sooner you talk to your Katonah, NY, dentists, Dr. Enyoung Park and Dr. Terry Lin of ParkLin Dental, about replacing missing teeth with implants, the better.
How dental implants restore your lost teeth
Dental implants are combined with dental crowns to create synthetic teeth that feel and work just like natural teeth. Tiny screw-like posts called implants are placed in your jawbone during minor surgery during the first step in the dental implant process. The implants osseointegrate, or bond, to your jawbone in a matter of months. Dental crowns connected to the top of the implants improve your appearance and make chewing and biting possible.
Why replacing missing teeth as soon as possible is the best option
Soon after you've lost a tooth or teeth is the best time to pay a visit to the Katonah dental office to discuss dental implants. If you wait too long, you may face these issues:
- Shifting Teeth: After you lose a tooth, your other teeth may begin to drift and overlap. As the teeth shift, you may notice changes in your appearance and your bite. When you receive a dental implant as soon as possible, you won't have to worry about changes caused by drifting teeth.
- Weakening Jawbone: Your tooth roots press on your jawbone, which provides the stimulation the bone needs to remain strong. Without that stimulation, the jawbone may begin to shrink, which can cause the loss of other teeth and sagging facial muscles. Dental implants stimulate your jawbone, preventing these unfortunate changes.
- Chewing Difficulties: The loss of even one tooth can make biting, chewing, grinding, and tearing food more difficult. If you decide to only chew on side of your mouth, those teeth may be subject to excessive wear and tear that could damage them. Dental implants make chewing much easier and won't decrease your biting power, like some tooth restoration options.
- Appearance Concerns: The longer you wait to replace missing teeth, the worse you may feel about your smile. Implants improve your appearance, helping you avoid a blow to your self-confidence.
Are you ready to fill the gaps in your smile with dental implants? Call your dentists in Katonah, NY, Drs. Dr. Enyoung Park and Dr. Terry Lin of ParkLin Dental, at (914) 232-8182 to schedule your appointment.