A complete, healthy smile boosts confidence and contributes to overall well-being. However, if you have one or more missing teeth, you might feel self-conscious and face unexpected oral health challenges. At St. Mary’s Dental, serving Mechanicsville, Charlotte Hall, and Leonardtown, Dr. Gina McCray and Dr. Kara McCray Demer offer a permanent solution to restore your smile: dental implants.
Why Do Teeth Go Missing?
Losing a tooth can happen for many reasons. Sometimes it’s due to an accident or injury that knocks a tooth out. In other cases, severe tooth decay or advanced gum disease can damage a tooth beyond repair, making extraction necessary. Certain genetic conditions can also lead to congenitally missing teeth. Whatever the reason, a gap in your smile is more than just a cosmetic issue.
The Health Effects Of Missing Teeth
When a tooth is lost, it can set off a chain reaction of oral health problems. Neighboring teeth may begin to shift into the empty space, causing misalignment and affecting your bite. This can lead to difficulty chewing and even jaw pain.
Furthermore, the jawbone in the area of the missing tooth no longer receives the stimulation it needs from chewing. This can cause the bone to deteriorate over time, leading to a sunken appearance in the face and potentially complicating future restorative work. A gap can also make you more susceptible to gum disease and further tooth loss.
Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants
Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth because they function just like a natural tooth root. An implant is a small, titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over time, the bone fuses with the post in a process called osseointegration, creating a strong and stable foundation. A custom-made dental crown is then attached to the implant, perfectly matching the color and shape of your surrounding teeth.
The result is a seamless, permanent restoration that looks, feels, and functions just like your natural teeth. You can eat your favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile with renewed confidence. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Advanced Technology for Optimal Results
At St. Mary’s Dental, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care. Dr. Gina McCray and Dr. Kara McCray Demer use advanced dental implant technology to ensure predictable and successful outcomes. Our 3D CAT scanner provides a complete, detailed view of your jaw structure, far surpassing what typical x-rays can show.
This powerful imaging allows us to assess your bone density and determine if any preparatory work, such as a bone graft, is needed. Most importantly, it enables us to plan the optimal placement for your implant, ensuring a secure fit and long-term success.
If you are tired of living with gaps in your smile, contact St. Mary’s Dental today. Let our expert team help you say goodbye to gaps and hello to a fully restored, beautiful smile.
Contact St. Mary’s Dental:
301-884-3248
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
28169 Old Village Rd
Mechanicsville, Maryland
20659