Dr. Frederick Asuncion explains the purpose of Dental Implants

A missing tooth is an aesthetic and functional problem. Without a tooth in place, the teeth may shift, bacteria may collect, and the bone may deteriorate. When you lose a tooth, you want to know if it can be replaced. Asking your dentist for dental implants is a good place to start. In Frederick, Maryland, Dr. Frederick Asuncion and the team at Asuncion Dental Group can help you make an informed decision about tooth implants and restoration options.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are screws that replace and restore missing teeth. Made of titanium or zirconia, the implant is precisely placed in the space of a missing tooth and is topped with a crown to replace a single tooth. For multiple missing teeth, several implants may be placed and topped with a bridge or denture.

Purpose of tooth implants

Each tooth consists of two basic parts: the crown and the root. The root keeps the tooth in place and maintains the health of the jawbone. The crown is visible and sits above the gumline, and bears the force of eating and speaking. 

While you often think of the tooth’s crown when considering tooth damage, the roots are crucial for overall oral health. Without a root in place, problems occur. Bacteria can hide in the gums and pockets from the missing tooth and can cause periodontal disease. The adjacent teeth may move, leading to tight spaces that are harder to keep clean or even orthodontic issues when the teeth are no longer straight, and the natural bite is thrown off.

Bone loss is a significant issue that most patients forget. The roots keep the jawbone healthy. When you bite down on foods, the root stimulates the jawbone, maintaining its integrity. If a root is missing and the bone is not stimulated, bone resorption begins as the bone breaks down. Signs of bone resorption include:

• Changes in bite or facial structure
• Loose or shifting teeth
• Difficulty speaking or changes in speech patterns
• Pain when eating
• Wrinkled skin around the mouth or lips that sink inward

Tooth implants prevent all of the worst-case scenarios above and protect your oral health. The implant itself takes on the role of the tooth root to maintain the bone and support the crown or restoration. An abutment attaches the crown, bridge, or denture to the implant to create the entire tooth structure. The final product restores your smile both functionally and aesthetically. You can smile with confidence once an implant and restoration are in place.

Find a dentist for dental implants in Frederick, Maryland

Asuncion Dental Group understands your dental needs. Following a consultation and exam, our team will provide customized dental care for your tooth replacement needs. Patients require adequate healthy bone to support a dental implant; otherwise, a bone graft may be necessary. Our team uses state-of-the-art equipment and provides quality care to improve your smile.

If you need a dentist for dental implants in Frederick, MD, contact Asuncion Dental Group today at (301) 690-8482.

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