Missing teeth — when implants are needed and treatment options

Dental implants are used when one or several teeth are missing and need to be restored without preparing adjacent healthy teeth. A dental implant replaces the natural root, integrates with the bone and supports a permanent crown.

Even a single missing tooth gradually affects the bite, causes neighboring teeth to shift and leads to bone resorption. For this reason dentists recommend not delaying restoration — the earlier the implant is placed, the simpler and more predictable treatment usually is.

Types of implant treatment

After examination the dentist selects an implant method depending on the number of missing teeth, bone volume and treatment goals. Detailed information about each option:

Signs you should consult an implant dentist

• 1. One or more missing teeth
• 2. Difficulty chewing food normally
• 3. Bite changes after extraction
• 4. Adjacent teeth becoming mobile
• 5. Removable denture rubbing or falling out
• 6. Problems with speech or chewing
• 7. Visible gap in the smile

What happens after tooth loss

After extraction the problem is not only aesthetic. The bone that previously held the root stops receiving functional load and gradually decreases in volume. This process is called bone resorption and begins within the first months after tooth loss.

Over time neighboring teeth tilt into the empty space, the bite changes and certain areas of the jaw become overloaded. This may lead to enamel wear, tooth sensitivity, gum problems and even discomfort in the temporomandibular joint.

How long you can wait before restoring a tooth

The longer restoration is postponed, the more complex treatment becomes. After 6–12 months bone volume may decrease to the point where bone grafting or sinus lifting is required before implant placement. Therefore restoration is usually planned soon after healing following extraction.

Bridge or implant — which is better

Several treatment options exist for replacing a missing tooth. A dental bridge requires preparation of adjacent healthy teeth because they serve as support. An implant is placed independently and does not load neighboring teeth, replacing only the missing root.

The final decision depends on the clinical situation, bone condition and general health. After diagnostics the dentist explains all options and selects the safest and most predictable method.

During the consultation the dentist examines the teeth and gums, evaluates whether there is enough bone for an implant and explains if implant placement is possible in your case. You may consult a dentist at the MasterDent dental clinic in Kyiv, where the treatment plan is selected individually.