Have you been missing a tooth for several months or years now? You may be wondering if your opportunity to get dental implants is behind you now. It is never a good idea to put off a surgical procedure – including dental implants. Missing teeth has a negative impact on oral health and your self-esteem. However, dental implants may still be an option for you. Here’s what you should know.
Can You Be Disqualified from Dental Implants Because You Waited Too Long?
When you chew your food, the teeth stimulate your jawbone via the roots to keep it strong and healthy. This stimulation also helps your jaw absorb minerals. When this stimulation isn’t happening, minerals are sent to other areas of the body, so the health of your jaw decreases. The longer you are missing teeth, the more bone resorption occurs.
Fortunately, even if you have been missing teeth for a while not, it doesn’t mean that you are automatically disqualified from the procedure. Your dentist will examine the jawbone to see if it is sufficient enough to support implants. If not, you may need a bone graft beforehand. This procedure is done to strengthen the jawbone so it can be healthy enough to support your replacement teeth.
How Does Tooth Loss Affect the Mouth?
In addition to bone loss, here are some of the ways missing teeth impact your oral health.
- Shifting Teeth: Over time, the teeth near the location of the missing tooth begin to shift around to fill in the gap. This can take away from the appearance of your teeth, even causing you to need orthodontic treatment before getting implants.
- Pneumatization: This is when your sinuses move. Your sinuses are located in the upper jaw, so when the tooth is gone, they can shift and make your procedure more complicated.
- Supra Eruption: This happens when the tooth below or above a missing tooth begins to move into the free space. This looks strange and complicates the procedure.
How Long After an Extraction Should You Get a Dental Implant?
The amount of time you should wait to get a dental implant varies on multiple factors. This includes the health of the extraction site and the position of your surrounding teeth. It is usually recommended to wait approximately 10 weeks to allow the area to fully heal. Schedule a consultation with your dentist to put together a plan that best meets your needs.
If you have been missing teeth for a while, dental implants may still be a possibility. By working with your dentist, you can make a plan that is right for you! You will be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!
About the Author
Dr. Faris Waheed earned his dental doctorate from the prestigious Tufts University School of Dental Medicine. He has completed several post-graduate courses focused on various subjects, including dental implants, root canal treatment, and more! He is a proud member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and more! To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (850) 890-7990.