Many of our patients deal with the frustration, discomfort and decreased self-esteem that comes from missing teeth. There are many causes of lost teeth. Some lose teeth because of injury, others because of decay or gum disease. If you are missing a tooth and don’t think it is necessary to replace it, we have a few reasons you may want to consider dental implants in Larkspur, CA as a treatment option.  

 The Concerns of Missing Teeth  

Over time, missing teeth can lead to many problems. As the space remains open, other teeth may shift into the open spot and change your bite. This can completely change your smile and cause previously straight teeth to become crooked. If you allow a periodontist like Dr. Ahn to replace a missing tooth early with a dental implant, then no shifting occurs. Missing teeth can also increase your chances of developing gum disease or dealing with tooth decay. As the teeth move and shift over time, it often makes it harder to reach certain spots to keep them clean. If you go months at a time without reaching a spot on your tooth, it is more susceptible to decay, which can lead to crowns, fillings or even more missing teeth.  

A missing tooth can also cause your jaw to completely change shape. The root of the tooth is placed in the jawbone and stimulates new growth. Once the root is gone, the bone has no reason to regenerate and may crumble over time. Dental implants are placed directly into the jawbone and function as a natural tooth would, allowing you to keep your natural face shape with no concerns of long-term bone degeneration.  

 Give Us a Call  

If you have a missing tooth and are concerned about the aesthetic changes and the problems you may develop with your oral health, we encourage you to give us a call at Marin Periodontics Dental Group to discuss the option of dental implants.