Missing a Tooth? Why It May Be Worth Exploring Your Replacement Options Sooner Rather Than Later

FREE 30-minute dental implant consultation.

Losing a tooth can happen for many reasons. It might be due to an accident, extensive decay, gum disease, a cracked tooth or a tooth that can no longer be predictably restored.

Once the initial problem has been dealt with, however, there is another question to consider: should the missing tooth be replaced?

Not every missing tooth needs to be managed in exactly the same way, and there are several possible approaches depending on where the gap is located, your oral health and your individual circumstances. One option your dentist may discuss with you is a dental implant.

What Happens When a Tooth Is Missing?

A gap can sometimes seem like something you can simply learn to live with, particularly if it is towards the back of the mouth and cannot easily be seen.

However, teeth work together as part of a larger system.

Depending on the location of the missing tooth, neighbouring teeth may gradually move or tilt towards the available space. The tooth that previously bit against the missing tooth may also change position over time.

A missing tooth can also affect how you chew, particularly when multiple teeth are absent.

This does not mean every missing tooth will cause a major problem. It does mean it is worth having the area assessed so you understand what may happen over time and whether replacing the tooth could be beneficial.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is one option for replacing a missing tooth.

The implant itself is a small fixture that is surgically placed into the jawbone in the area where the tooth is missing. After a period of healing and integration with the surrounding bone, the implant can support a dental restoration such as a crown.

The result is a replacement tooth that is supported independently rather than relying on neighbouring natural teeth for support.

Implants can also be used in different ways when several or all teeth are missing, although treatment planning becomes more involved in these situations.

Why Do People Consider Dental Implants?

One of the key differences between a dental implant and some other tooth replacement options is that the implant is anchored within the jaw.

For someone missing a single tooth, this can mean the neighbouring teeth may not need to be prepared to support the replacement tooth, as can be required with certain types of dental bridges.

Once restored, an implant-supported tooth is designed to function as part of the bite and can be brushed similarly to a natural tooth, although careful cleaning around the implant remains essential.

For many patients, the appeal is having a fixed tooth replacement rather than something removable.

Is Everyone Suitable for Dental Implants?

Dental implants can be an option for many adults, but suitability needs to be assessed individually.

Your dentist will need to consider factors including the health of your teeth and gums, the condition and amount of bone in the proposed implant area, your medical history and other factors that could influence healing.

Imaging may also be required to assess the area in greater detail and determine whether there is adequate bone available for implant placement.

If a tooth has been missing for some time, there may have been changes to the surrounding bone. This does not necessarily mean implant treatment is impossible, but additional procedures may sometimes need to be considered.

This is why an implant consultation is an important first step.

What Does the Dental Implant Process Involve?

Implant treatment is usually completed over several stages rather than in a single appointment.

After the initial assessment and treatment planning, the implant is placed into the jaw. The area is then given time to heal while the implant integrates with the surrounding bone.

Once healing is sufficient, the final restoration can be planned and fitted.

The exact timeline varies considerably between patients. Factors such as the location of the implant, bone condition, healing and whether additional treatment is required can all influence how long the overall process takes.

Your dentist can provide a more personalised indication of the stages and expected timeframe after assessing your mouth.

What Are the Alternatives?

Dental implants are not the only way to replace missing teeth.

Depending on your circumstances, alternatives may include a dental bridge, partial denture or, in some situations, leaving the space as it is and monitoring it.

There are advantages and limitations to each approach. Rather than starting with the assumption that you need an implant, it is useful to start by understanding all of the options available to you.

Find Out Whether Dental Implants Could Be an Option for You

If you have a missing tooth, a tooth that may need to be removed, or you have been thinking about dental implants for some time, the first step is an assessment and conversation.

Highway Dental in Mount Waverley is currently offering a FREE 30-minute dental implant consultation. This gives you an opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn more about your tooth replacement options and understand whether dental implant treatment may be suitable for your individual circumstances.

For more information or to book your FREE 30-minute dental implant consultation, contact Highway Dental in Mount Waverley on (03) 9807 1013.