Sometimes a tooth extraction becomes necessary to protect your overall dental health. Whether due to decay, infection, or injury, losing a tooth is just the first step in maintaining your smile. At Empire Dental Care, we often discuss tooth extractions in Webster with our patients, and we also emphasize something equally important: what happens after the extraction. Replacing that missing tooth is not just about appearance; it is essential for preserving your jawbone, maintaining your smile, and helping to prevent future dental complications.
The Hidden Impact of Missing Teeth
When you lose a tooth, the visible gap is obvious. What you cannot see, however, is how that space affects your oral health below the surface.
Jawbone Deterioration Begins Quickly
Your jawbone needs stimulation from tooth roots to maintain its density and strength. When a tooth is removed, that stimulation disappears. The bone in that area begins to deteriorate, a process called bone resorption, which can start within just a few months. Over time, this bone loss can change your facial structure and make your face appear older or sunken.
Your Other Teeth Start Shifting
Nature does not like empty spaces, and your mouth is no exception. Adjacent teeth naturally drift toward the gap, while opposing teeth may begin to grow longer. This shifting can create:
- Bite alignment problems
- Difficulty chewing certain foods
- Increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease
- Jaw discomfort or TMJ issues
- Challenges for future dental work
Why Dental Implants Are the Gold Standard
Dental implants have a number of advantages over conventional fixed partial dentures.1 At Empire Dental Care, we offer several tooth replacement options, but dental implants provide the most comprehensive solution for many patients seeking tooth extractions in Webster and implant options.
How Implants Preserve Your Jawbone
Dental implants work differently from bridges or dentures. A biocompatible titanium post is gently placed into your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone through a natural process called osseointegration. This implant acts like a natural tooth root and provides the stimulation your jawbone needs to stay healthy and strong.
Our professionals have specialized training through the Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health, and are working with Board-Certified periodontal specialists to provide you with the highest level of tooth extractions and implant crown placement, helping ensure seamless, personalized care throughout your treatment journey.
Additional Benefits of Replacement
Beyond bone preservation, replacing extracted teeth offers:
- Restored chewing function for better nutrition and digestion
- Natural-looking results that blend beautifully with your existing teeth
- Improved speech clarity
- Enhanced confidence in your smile
- A long-lasting solution that can endure for many years with proper care
Other Replacement Options to Consider
While implants offer superior benefits, we understand every patient has unique needs and circumstances. Our team takes time to understand your individual situation and help you make the best decision for your family.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges use adjacent teeth as anchors to support a replacement tooth. They are typically more affordable than implants and do not require surgery, though they do not prevent bone loss in the space left by the missing tooth.
Dentures
Both partial and complete dentures can replace multiple missing teeth. Modern dentures are designed to be more comfortable and natural-looking, and we are happy to discuss whether they are right for your situation.
Your Personalized Treatment Plan
At Empire Dental Care, we believe every smile deserves individualized attention. We take time to listen to your concerns and answer all your questions. During your consultation, we will:
- Gently assess your jawbone density and overall oral health
- Discuss your lifestyle, budget, and preferences.
- Explain all available options with their advantages and considerations.
- Create a timeline that fits comfortably with your schedule.
- Review our flexible financing options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long can I wait after tooth extraction to get an implant?
Ideally, implants are placed within three to six months of extraction to help prevent significant bone loss. In some cases, implants can be placed immediately after an extraction. We will evaluate your individual needs during a gentle, thorough consultation and will give you the optimal timeline for your situation.
Q: Is the dental implant process comfortable?
Most patients report minimal discomfort. We prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process and offer appropriate sedation and management options tailored to your needs.
Q: How long do dental implants last?
With proper care and regular dental visits, dental implants can last 25 years or even a lifetime.
Protect Your Smile for the Long Term
Do not let a missing tooth compromise your oral health and confidence. At Empire Dental Care, we are committed to helping Webster and Rochester area families maintain healthy, beautiful smiles through personalized, compassionate care.
Ready to explore your tooth replacement options? Call (585) 671-1650 or contact our caring team today to schedule a consultation and discover how replacing your extracted tooth can help preserve your jawbone and protect your smile for years to come. We are here to support you and your family every step of the way.
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