Life with a missing tooth can be quite a challenge. Without the full complement of properly shaped and sized teeth, chewing and speaking can be impacted. The smile can be noticeably impacted by a missing tooth. And the neighboring teeth may not be receiving adequate support. [pullquote]For replacing congenitally missing teeth, dental implants are often the best choice. [/pullquote]

In light of the disadvantages associated with missing teeth, it is fortunate that patients can elect to replace these teeth with dental implants in Burnaby.

Sometimes a missing tooth is due to a traumatic injury, extensive tooth decay, or periodontal disease with bone loss. In just as many cases, the missing tooth is the result of a congenital condition. This condition, in which a person may be born without one or more permanent teeth, is a fairly common occurrence. For various reasons, roughly 6% of the American population can be found to be missing either the second premolars or the upper laterals.

For replacing congenitally missing teeth, dental implants are often the best choice. The option of a removable partial or denture is typically too bulky and excessive for replacing only one or two teeth. A dental bridge would require the filing down of the healthy teeth on either side of the congenitally missing tooth. Only a dental implant can replace the missing tooth without clipping, hooking, or otherwise compromising the neighboring teeth.

The implant, similarly shaped and sized to a natural tooth, is designed to behave as such. Once it has properly healed, it will be anchored to the jaw bone. the implant is secure enough to allow patients to sustain a normal diet. The tooth stands alone with proper bone support, and can be brushed and flossed like a normal tooth.

Your implant dentist will need to evaluate several factors such as your overall health and the amount of available bone at the site of the proposed implant to determine if the procedure is right for you. To begin your exploration into dental implants for the replacement of congenitally missing teeth, call the office of Dr. Bernard Jin for your appointment today.