Single Tooth Replacements in Houston, TX
Our Houston Implant Dentists Can Complete Your Smile
It’s important not to ignore or put up with missing teeth, especially if you’re missing several in a row. Not only is missing teeth a cosmetic issue, but it’s also a health concern. To stay as healthy as possible, you must replace missing teeth.
At Antoine Dental Center in Houston, TX, Dr. Behzad Nazari and our dental team provide a variety of tooth replacement options to ensure your oral health is strong enough to support a healthy high-fiber diet. We understand the importance of a healthy diet and how essential a strong, sturdy set of teeth is for your ability to make healthy food choices.
Reasons for Tooth Replacement
Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is the most common dental care concern. If left unchecked, it can start a cycle of tooth loss that’s hard to break without some sort of tooth replacement. When bacteria infect one tooth, it can lead to tooth decay and can easily spread to another. If the tooth decay gets to the point you lose the tooth, the teeth on either side of the missing one become more susceptible to tooth decay. Unless you’re careful, one missing tooth can lead to several missing teeth.
Gum Disease
Another common problem associated with oral health is gum disease. Like tooth decay, gum disease is caused by bacteria in your mouth. The early stages of gum disease are hard to detect because the symptoms are very subtle. Slight gum irritation and bleeding may be the only things you notice, and there’s often no pain, so you may even write off the symptoms you recognize.
Unfortunately, many people don’t begin to suspect they have gum disease until it’s in its advanced stage, also known as periodontitis. At this stage, the gum pockets bulge and swell and become severely infected. At the same time, your gums recede away from your teeth. Your gums are part of your teeth’s foundation, so when your gum mass decreases, your teeth loosen and eventually fall out unless you undergo gum disease treatment early. Additionally, the bacteria ravaging your gums are also harmful to your teeth.
Injury
Accidents happen. The only thing you can do is be careful and be prepared. Often, it’s possible to reinsert a knocked-out tooth to heal back into place. Time is of the essence, so you will need to get to our Houston dental office as soon as possible. Be sure to keep your tooth submerged in milk to keep it healthy while waiting for emergency care. Sometimes, though, your tooth might be too damaged, or you won’t be able to find it. In that case, Antoine Dental Center has tooth replacement solutions to ensure you don’t sacrifice your health because of an accident.
Our Tooth Replacement Options
Dentures
Dentures can replace a single tooth, a series of teeth, or a whole row. Dentures aren’t permanent, however, and come with some problems. Since they aren’t physically anchored to your gums, dentures can slide around inside your mouth and fall out when you eat or laugh. This can be embarrassing. It also means you have to be careful about your diet.
Dental Implants
Dental implants function, look and feel like natural teeth. We implant a titanium post into the jawbone. After it heals, we place a dental crown on top. This restoration is a secure and sturdy tooth replacement with no diet restrictions. You will be able to handle all the dietary fiber you need to stay healthy and won’t have to deal with any slippage, as you might with dentures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a single tooth implant last?
If you maintain a good at-home oral hygiene routine, your single dental implant can last for a lifetime. You also need to keep up with your regular dental appointments by visiting your dentist’s office at least twice a year.
It’s important to note that the customized crown portion of your restoration only lasts for about 10 to 15 years. You’ll usually need to replace your crown due to normal wear and tear.
How much does it cost to replace a missing tooth?
The costs of single tooth replacements in the Houston area differ based on factors like the number of missing teeth, your insurance coverage, and your restoration choice. Many insurance companies should cover the cost of your treatment. We recommend speaking to your insurance provider beforehand to understand the benefits you’re entitled to. Ask your dentist if their office provides financing options or patient specials.
Can a single tooth replacement option improve my bite and jaw alignment?
A single tooth replacement option, such as a dental implant, can help to improve bite and jaw alignment by replacing the missing tooth and filling the gap in the dental arch. A dental implant can help to prevent the shifting of other teeth and the potential development of bite and jaw issues. This is because the implant is fused with your jawbone and stimulates new bone growth.
Are there lifestyle changes or restrictions required after a single tooth replacement procedure?
After a single tooth replacement procedure, there may be temporary restrictions on the types of foods you can eat and the activities you can participate in. It’s crucial to follow your dentist’s instructions for proper care and maintenance of your replacement tooth to promote healing and protect your new tooth, this includes:
- Brushing your teeth twice daily
- Flossing daily
- Visit your dentist’s office biannually for regular dental check-ups
- Avoid hard or crunchy foods
- Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol
Check What Antoine Dental Center Can Do for You!
Have a missing or decaying tooth? It’s time to replace it. Schedule an appointment at the Antoine Dental Center to learn about your single-tooth replacement options. You can reach our Houston, TX office at (713) 691-8880. We’re proud to serve patients in Aldine, Independent Heights, Northside Village, and Eastex/ Jensen neighborhoods.
