Why is it important to replace a missing tooth with an implant?

08 June 2022

What is a dental implant?

Dental implantation is an alternative method of treating adentia (toothlessness).

During dental implantation, an artificial root (implant) is placed in the bone, on which an artificial tooth (crown) is subsequently fixed. While there are several alternatives to filling the space left after tooth extraction, dental implants remain the most innovative solution.Once the dental implants are attached to the site of the missing tooth, the difference between it and the natural teeth becomes invisible to the eye.

The implant consists of three main parts, namely: the artificial titanium root, which integrates into the bone; The abutment of the implant that connects the artificial crown to the artificial root of the titanium and the artificial crown of the implant itself, which is visually analogous to a natural tooth. Replacing a lost tooth with an implant is very important in maintaining the general health of the oral cavity, as implants not only give us a visual effect, but also functionally heal the jaw-facial system.

What are the advantages of a dental implant?

One of the main advantages of dental implants is that they resemble natural teeth and blend harmoniously into the  oral cavity. In everyday life, when you smile and talk, considering the characteristic color of dental implants and the gloss close to natural tooth enamel, it is impossible to say that they are artificial. Also important is the fact that a dental implant is very similar to a natural tooth, not only visually, but also in the sensations that the patient gets when using it directly, in the process of chewing. Patients may not even feel the presence of an implant in the jawbone, and when the tongue slides over part of the implant crown, it is as smooth as a natural tooth.

Because dental implants are not made from natural tooth material, it is distinguished by its resistance to caries and other diseases. It is resistant to wear and tear. As for the dental implant care process, implant care at home is quite simple and very similar to natural tooth care rules. They need to be cleaned regularly with a toothbrush and use an irrigator.

Dental implants have a positive effect on a patient's self-esteem. Nothing can hurt a person's self-confidence like a bad smile. Replacing lost teeth with dental implants can significantly improve a person's daily life and allow them to enjoy an attractive, harmonious smile.

Why should we replace a lost tooth with an implant?

1. Firmness

When the teeth, in the oral cavity, are located side by side, firmly and the empty space between them is minimal, they do not move and are therefore protected from loosening and any other kind of damage. If you’re missing a tooth however, you risk the possibility of teeth shifting. Teeth can drift out of place, leading to a change in your bite, potential gum disease and possible tooth decay. Therefore it is especially important to fill an empty space with an implant as soon as possible after tooth extraction.

2. Facial asymmetry

Missing a tooth can cause a change in the areas of your face. The world's leading dentists agree that the space created at the site of a missing tooth, which has not been properly filled with an implant, causes a change in the patient's facial areas and visually makes the face asymmetrical. Chewing function on the side of the missing tooth is impaired, which is logical because the patient is hindered by the empty space during the chewing process. Restricting chewing on one side of the jaw and shifting the load completely to the other "healthy" side in turn causes uneven stimulation of the facial and jaw muscles leading to asymmetry. The muscle on one side of the face is relaxed, respectively the cheek and generally the silhouette of the face is allowed downwards, while on the other side, on the contrary, due to excessive activity the jaw muscle is in tone which leaves a visual swelling effect. At first glance, it looks as if the patient has swollen jaws and cheeks.

“Blits Dental - Kakhaber Kharebava dental clinic Tbilisi” offers a comfortable environment. Our team of doctors will take care of your oral health and give you the opportunity to enjoy an attractive, harmonious smile.