Missing teeth are no laughing matter. In fact, if missing teeth go unreplaced, a whole host of problems can arise. Dental implants, however, save patients from not only the embarrassment of an incomplete smile, but they also prevent the many problems that are caused when the gaps are left unfilled.
Not Just a Matter of Aesthetics
Many people are under the impression that a missing tooth is nothing more than an embarrassing eyesore. But these people are mistaken. If you’ve lost a tooth (or a few teeth), the longer you go without addressing the problem, the more likely you are to experience any number of problems:
- Jawbone loss
- Shifting and rotating of remaining teeth
- Higher risk of gum disease
And even…
- Supplementary tooth loss
You read that correctly. If you don’t replace your missing tooth (or teeth), you may be forced to say goodbye to others as well.
Dental Implants Save the Day
The good news is, dental implants not only prevent these problems by filling in the space left behind, but they are also durable, natural looking, and fully functional. Because dental implants are anchored by a titanium post implanted into your jawbone (which, in time, actually fuses with the metal), you can expect your dental implant to last a lifetime (with good oral care, of course). Plus, Dr. Devlin will cap any visible dental implants with tooth-colored, porcelain crowns that will blend seamlessly with your natural teeth. Implants in the back of your mouth are usually capped with metal crowns for added strength.
If you think dental implants might be right for you, call our State College office today, and schedule a consultation with Dr. Devlin! We also proudly serve patients in Bellefonte, Centre Hall, and Altoona.