Tooth loss is still an alarmingly common problem for millions of American adults. Over 100 million adults in the United States are missing at least one tooth, and nearly 40 million have lost all of their natural teeth.
Tooth loss doesn’t just wreak havoc on your oral health; it also impacts your general health by interfering with your nutrition and increasing your risk of serious health conditions like gum disease.
The reality of tooth loss can be stressful and overwhelming, but there are options available to help you get your health back on track. Dental implants are the next best thing to natural teeth and help to optimize your health in many ways.
Dr. Scott Young and our team of dentists recommend dental implants for full or partial tooth loss. Located in The Woodlands, Texas, Scott Young, DDS, provides dental services for the greater Houston region, including the communities of Highland Village, West University, River Oaks, Rice Village, and Memorial.
Difficulty eating and chewing as well as slurred speech are some of the most common side effects of tooth loss. But the damage is much deeper than just your smile. When you lose a tooth, the bone tissue that supported it begins to erode.
Bone loss increases your risk of gum disease and other oral health complications. The bacteria associated with gum disease has also been linked to significant health problems like cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
A dental implant acts as a prosthetic replacement for the root of a missing tooth, which prevents bone loss. The implant is surgically placed in your gums, where it fuses with the surrounding bone and stimulates the growth of new bone tissue.
Once the implant is firmly in place, a cosmetic crown is attached via an abutment, so your implants look and function just like a natural tooth.
The process takes several months, but dental implants can last a lifetime. You can eat the same foods you’ve always enjoyed and maintain your regular oral hygiene routine to keep your gums and surrounding teeth healthy.
The ease of living with dental implants can also improve your emotional and mental health if you’ve been living with the effects of tooth loss on your health as well as your confidence.
Dental implants are recommended for adults who are in good health and have enough bone density to support an implant. At your consultation, Dr. Young and our team will perform a comprehensive dental exam and medical history and recommend the best treatment option for you based on your health and lifestyle.
For more information about dental implants and to find out if they’re a good option for you, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
