Every tooth in your mouth serves a purpose. Whether it is to chew, bite, tear, or cut, you need your teeth in order to maintain good oral health and effectively perform day-to-day tasks. When a tooth falls out or is extracted, it reduces your mouth’s full functionality and can cause a wide range of dental problems. From the visible front teeth to those situated in the back of your mouth, missing teeth spell trouble. If you’ve considered dental implants as a viable restorative method but are unsure if they replace molars, read on to find out what a dentist has to say on the topic.
The Importance of Molars
When cavemen and cavewomen existed, the teeth furthest back in your mouth known as the third molars, had an explicit purpose, which was to tear and chew through coarse food. These particular teeth virtually serve no purpose today and are often removed during a process called “wisdom tooth extraction.” Humans no longer eat the same coarse foods as their caveman ancestors, and over time, the jaw has shrunk, leaving no real room for these teeth.
However, just because these third molars aren’t necessary doesn’t the rest of your molars should be removed. In fact, without them, you would have difficulty chewing many of the foods you love to eat. Their hard, flat surface help to break down the foods you consume, much like wisdom teeth once did.
Whether you need a molar extracted or one falls out, it is imperative that you replace it. Why? Here are a few reasons:
- Missing teeth can cause changes in your facial appearance (i.e. facial collapse)
- You are at an increased risk of developing gum disease
- The lack of stimulation provided by a tooth root can result in jawbone deterioration
- Your teeth can shift, resulting in improper bite alignment
- Additional teeth can become loose or even fall out
A Permanent Solution with Dental Implants
To ensure none of the above-mentioned reasons happen, it is best if you talk to your dentist about dental implants. Offering permanence, greater stability, and functionality, this tooth replacement solution consists of a titanium post that serves to mimic the tooth’s root. Placed into the jawbone, it will help to stimulate the area and keep the bone healthy and strong. Once the implant is placed, it must fuse to the bone and tissues, which can take several months. Once you’ve healed completely, a custom restoration is placed on top to create a flawless smile.
How Dental Implants Can Replace Molars
Molars might look different than other teeth, but they can most certainly be replaced with dental implants. If you’re missing just one molar, your dentist will use a single tooth implant that will blend in with the rest of your smile and offer restored functionality.
Making a small incision in your gums, he will carefully position the implant in your jawbone before stitching up the area. Over the next several months, you’ll heal at home and allow osseointegration to occur, which is the fusing on the implant to bone and tissue. Once you’ve fully recovered, you’ll return to have the final part of your procedure. An abutment, which is the small appliance connecting the implant to the restoration, will be placed as well as your custom dental crown.
It doesn’t matter if it’s an incisor, canine, or molar that needs replacing, dental implants are one of the most versatile treatment methods available. Don’t let a missing tooth go untreated. Restore your smile with a permanent, longer-lasting solution.
About the Author
Dr. Andrew Nawrocki received his bachelor’s degree in Microbiology and Cell Science from the University of Florida (UF) in 2004. Four years later, he achieved his doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Florida College of Dentistry. Completing a residency in general dentistry at the Bay Pines VAMC, he earned a certificate for Advanced Education in General Dentistry. Dr. Nawrocki believes in the importance of education, which is why he returned to UF and attained a Specialist Certificate in Prosthodontics, in addition to a master’s degree in Dental Science. His interest and passion for dentistry led him to be named a Fellow in the International Congress of Oral Implantology in 2010. To learn more about Dr. Nawrocki and our dental implant services, visit our website or call (386) 677-1046.