Single Tooth Dental Implants

If you have a single missing tooth, you’ve likely experienced dental trauma or have suffered decay. You’re probably also considering having your tooth replaced. Here’s why dental implants are the best choice modern dentistry has to offer for teeth replacement.

When even a single tooth is lost, regardless of the reason, three major consequences occur:
 
1. Patients have a harder time with normal dental functions, such as chewing properly and speaking clearly.

2. The patient’s existing teeth can move out of place towards the gap. This may make orthodontic care necessary to straighten teeth before a restoration can be provided.

3. Jawbone goes through the process of resorption, where hard tissues deteriorate and shrink. When this occurs, the jawbone becomes weak and can no longer support teeth or a traditional implant.
Once these occur, the patient’s appearance begins to suffer as well, showing early signs of aging and impacting overall facial features.

Why Choose Dental Implants for Single Teeth Replacement

Replacing a tooth with a dental implant completely prevents the domino effect caused by one missing tooth. Dental implants are the most comprehensive replacement method, from the root to the crown.
If a tooth is severely decayed and requires an extraction, or if an individual suffered an accident that has lead to a knocked-out tooth, receiving a dental implant can completely restore dental functionality and appearance.

A dental implant prevents resorption and shifting dental alignment. By placing an implant post inside the socket formerly occupied by the missing tooth, your jawbone and surrounding teeth gain the support necessary for structural integrity. Furthermore, the titanium material of the implant post, or root portion of the implant, naturally fuses with bone and works to support replacement teeth. A dental implant can be just as stable, if not more stable, as a natural tooth.

Should dental implant restorations become damaged, replacement is as easy as changing out a crown. Dental implants allow patients the flexibility of a reliable restoration and the durability of a permanent tooth.

Learn more Implant Crowns

To find out more about why dental implants are the best way to replace a missing tooth, call Primo Smiles to schedule your appointment with our implant dentist today!

Can My Teeth Be Whitened?

Many patients inquire about quick ways to improve the appearance of their smiles. While some consider comprehensive cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers, we often recommend something as simple and speedy as in-office Zoom! teeth whitening to brighten dental enamel in just one office visit. This fast treatment can radically improve the appearance of your smile in minutes.

When considering teeth whitening, it’s important to know whether you are a viable candidate.

Consider the following qualifying factors:

The health of teeth - Cosmetic teeth whitening is most effective on patients with natural teeth and healthy gums. Patients with dental restorations like crowns, fillings, and bridges can still undergo teeth whitening, but the active agents in the product will not brighten whiten the surfaces of restorations.

Desired results and level of staining - Many patients seek a movie star smile, though this often results in an unnatural appearance. And for those with severely discolored dental enamel, this level of whiteness may not be achievable with bleaching gel alone. We work with our patients to provide a reasonable recommendation that improves the brightness of their teeth and can recommend alternatives when necessary.

In some cases, we advise against teeth whitening. These include:

• When a patient is less than 16 years of age, as the pulp in their teeth is still developing. Early exposure to the ingredients in professional teeth whitening products can cause darkening of the pulp.
• When a patient is pregnant
• Patients who have gum disease, untreated cavities, exposed roots, or worn enamel are advised to not undergo treatment as increased discomfort or irritation to their preexisting conditions may result.

When inquiring about teeth whitening, we recommend learning about the various products and treatment options available. There are numerous methods of teeth whitening, some of which include wearing custom whitening trays and others that involve a single visit to your dental professional. Be sure to ask about what is offered and what level of your involvement is required.

If you’re interested in learning more about Zoom! Teeth Whitening, please don’t hesitate to give our office a call. We’re happy to discuss the procedure and address any questions or concerns you may have.

How Cosmetic Dentistry Serves Oral Health

Though cosmetic dental procedures are meant to give you the smile you’ve always wanted, they also do much more, particularly when it comes to your overall oral health. Patients who already have strong teeth benefit from aesthetic enhancement, while those with dental health issues enjoy a new appearance along with improved wellness.

With options that include tooth-colored dental crowns, veneers, and bridges, cosmetic restorations can do all of the following for your smile:

Prevent Spread of Decay

Decay is caused by bacteria and plaque that eat away at dental enamel, contributing to soft tissue infection. With the lack of a comprehensive hygiene routine, harmful bacteria can easily spread from decayed teeth to their healthy neighbors. When you seek a cosmetic dental restoration however, you’re obtaining a prosthetic that seals the tooth, significantly reducing the likelihood that nearby teeth will be negatively affected.

Improve Function

Compromised teeth can be sensitive and painful, leading patients to chew on the opposite side of their mouth as a way of avoiding aggravating a tooth ache. This may provide short-term relief, but ultimately wears down dental enamel. Teeth that have been ground down by uneven pressure and use eventually affect bite balance. A cosmetic dental restoration, such as a porcelain crown or bridge, allows you to comfortably chew and encourages an even distribution of force during everyday function.

Protect Weak or Damaged Teeth 

Dental crowns completely encircle teeth, providing durability and a renewed strength to teeth that have been seriously decayed, fractured, or contain large and failing fillings. Not only will your smile look great, you won’t have to worry that you’ll further damage natural teeth by biting into something hard.

In the case of superficial damage or irregularly shaped teeth, other cosmetic dental restorations, such as veneers, can be placed to lend a new sense of uniformity.

Ask our Dentist about Your Cosmetic Treatment Plan!

If your teeth are broken, decayed, or otherwise in need of a boost to both health and function, ask Dr. Kerns how cosmetic dental procedures can help you meet your goals. We provide care with a focus on improving both improve the way you look and the overall health of your smile.