One of the most realistic replacements for a missing tooth is a dental implant. Because it is anchored into the jawbone itself, it provides a degree of stability that can be lacking in other artificial dental substitutes.
Missing teeth, caused by head trauma or dental decay, can not only be embarrassing but can also be the cause of further dental and general health complications. Missing teeth can allow space for bacteria to build up in places difficult to clean with regular brushes. The bacteria turns into plaque which causes tooth decay and gum disease which leads to further tooth loss.
Teeth also act as rigid supports for facial tissue so if a tooth or teeth are missing the facial muscles can begin to sag leaving a sunken expression on the patient’s face. Unless corrected this can permanently alter the appearance and profile of the patient. Missing teeth can also cause existing teeth to shift leading to further complications with bite and jaw alignment.
There are several options to replace missing teeth, including partial dentures and dental bridges, but the most popular and most secure is a dental implant. These take the form of cylindrical screws that are anchored directly in the jawbone. Crowns can then be attached to the screws to offer a sturdy and realistic alternative to a real tooth.
A dental implant will usually take several visits to the dentist to install. When the screw is initially implanted, it will need several weeks to fuse with the bone and the gums in a process called osseointergration. When secure, a post will be attached to the screw which will then be the base for a realistic ceramic crown.
Small dental implants can also be used to attach dentures. In this process, half a dozen small implants will be secured to which dentures can snap on and off. This allows denture wearers the comfort of knowing their false teeth are secure and unlikely to fall out.
Dental implants can provide a genuine long-term replacement for a missing tooth and if cared for properly can last up to fifteen years. If you are suffering from a missing tooth and desire a rigid substitute, ask a Merseyside dentist about dental implants.
A missing tooth can leave an embarrassing gap in your smile that can be the source of self confidence issues. After all, smiling is one of the most important communication methods we have. A 
Unfortunately, many people that work in the construction industry, or other forms of blue collar labour often wind up with mouth injuries. Regardless of whether you got hit by a beam, or you fell down, the damage to your mouth can be extensive. For example, aside from knocking teeth out, you may also wind up with torn gums, cheek damage, and tongue abrasions. Each one of these problems can be avoided when you have custom mouth guard created by your Merseyside dentist.