The Cosmetic Aspects of Bone and Tooth Loss
Understanding the functional concerns of tooth and bone loss in the mouth is simple. A healthy mouth not only allows for ease in everyday activities, such as eating and speaking, but it also contributes to a person’s overall well-being. While a healthy mouth plays a vital role in preventing more serious medical conditions (such as heart disease and stroke), it’s important to realize that this is only one part of the equation. The cosmetic aspect of a healthy mouth is also incredibly crucial. A person’s self-confidence is deeply intertwined with how they feel about their appearance. If a patient’s mouth has missing teeth and damaged bone, their self-esteem is bound to be affected. Unfortunately for many patients, this insecurity can mute their personality and their ability to let that personality shine.
We’ve all known someone (or been that someone) who hides their smile in photos or covers their mouth when they laugh so that they can disguise the teeth that are behind it. It is a sad but honest fact that our mouths take a constant beating, and few people are graced with long-lasting, naturally perfect teeth. At one point or another, the majority of men and women need dental help. Whether you are interviewing for your dream job, wanting to look your best for a special occasion, or desiring the confidence to expose your true self, cosmetic dentistry can help put bone and tooth loss behind you.
Bone and Tooth Loss
Bone and tooth loss is often a result of periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease occurs when bacteria causes an infection in the gums that surround the tooth. If untreated, this infection causes “pockets” or spaces between the gum and teeth that eventually begin to destroy the bone. When the bone is damaged, the connecting tooth has nothing to hold on to, and therefore becomes loose or falls out entirely, leaving you with an unhealthy-looking smile.
Cosmetic Dentistry Promotes Confidence
If gum disease is causing you to be insecure, cosmetic dentistry can help. Dental implants are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to restore your smile’s health. Implants are available for one or more teeth and allow you to finally gain control over your mouth. They are strong, durable, long lasting, and best of all, they look completely natural. Allow yourself the joy that comes with the appearance of a full and healthy set of teeth while also increasing your mouth’s functional ability.
For patients whose gum disease or previous dental extractions have damaged the underlying bone, a bone graft may be necessary before you can receive dental implants. Bone grafting repairs these damaged regions by using donor tissue either from a tissue bank or a piece of bone from your jaw, hip, or tibia (shin). The transfer of this bone or tissue allows your dentist to restore the look and function of your dental health.
If you are interested in adjusting your smile, contact Dr. Salamati today by calling 310-275-1090 to set up a consultation.