The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth: Health and Aesthetic Reasons
Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • September 12, 2024

While adult tooth loss has lessened since the 70s, it's still a prevalent issue, according to the NIH.


Having a full set of teeth is fundamental to chewing food well, maintaining facial structure, and more. Still, many people might not realize that replacing teeth is essential.


Losing a tooth can create several long-term issues if left untreated. That's why replacing missing teeth with dental implants and other solutions can provide many health benefits. Read on to learn more about why you should restore the appearance of a complete smile.


Why Is Replacing Missing Teeth Vital?

When a tooth is missing, the entire mouth can suffer consequences. You could end up dealing with the following:


  • Changes in bite alignment
  • Speech difficulties
  • Jawbone deterioration


Missing teeth can also make it hard to have confidence during social interactions. Are you wondering why it's so important to replace them?


Preserving Oral Health

The loss of a tooth leads to the deterioration of the surrounding structures, such as the gums and jawbone. As the condition progresses, you could experience further tooth loss.


Such a domino effect can make future dental procedures even more complex. Replacing missing teeth helps maintain oral health by preventing bone loss and keeping the remaining teeth in their proper positions.


Restoring Functionality

Every single tooth plays a role in chewing and speaking. Even one missing tooth can make it a struggle to eat certain foods.


Plus, the gap can affect your speech. Replacing the tooth restores normal function and allows you to chew and speak with ease.


Aesthetic Appeal

A full, healthy smile is essential for boosting self-confidence and enhancing one's general appearance. Missing teeth can create noticeable gaps that affect your facial structure and appearance. Dental implants and other tooth replacement options restore the aesthetics of your smile, which in turn positively affects your self-esteem.


Health Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth

One of the most significant oral health benefits of replacing missing teeth is preventing bone loss. It's a process that's called bone resorption. It can cause sunken facial features and can even cause nearby teeth to shift from their proper place.


Over time, untreated bone loss can lead to more severe oral health problems, including further tooth loss and jawbone damage.


Dental implants are a tried and true solution for preventing bone loss. Implants act like natural tooth roots by stimulating the jawbone. Doing this preserves its structure and maintains the integrity of your facial appearance.


Maintaining Proper Bite Alignment

Remember that your remaining teeth can shift into the gap of a missing tooth, leading to an improper bite. This misalignment can cause difficulties, such as the following:


  • Chewing
  • Speaking
  • A higher temporomandibular joint disorder risk


It's vital to prevent these potential complications and ensure that your teeth can function as needed.


Reducing the Risk of Gum Disease

Gaps can become homes for food particles and bacteria, leading to an elevated risk of gum disease. The exposed gums are more vulnerable to infection, which can cause the following:


  • Gum inflammation
  • Periodontal disease
  • Further tooth loss


Replacing missing teeth does more than restore the gap. It also provides a barrier that helps shrink the risk of gum-related issues.


Dental implants and other replacement options also create a smoother surface that's easier to clean, contributing to better oral hygiene.


Aesthetic Benefits of Replacing Missing Teeth

For many people, the aesthetic value of replacing missing teeth is just as important as the oral health benefits. A complete set of teeth enhances the beauty of your smile and contributes to a more youthful, attractive appearance.


Missing teeth are known to result in a sunken or aged facial structure. This happens because the jawbone deteriorates, and the facial muscles lose support.


Addressing missing teeth with dependable options can restore the fullness of your face for a more balanced look.


Confidence Boost With Teeth Restored

There's no doubt that smile restoration can work wonders for confidence. It's an unfortunate fact that most people with missing teeth feel self-conscious about how they look. Such self-consciousness can affect their interactions with others and lead to a general lack of self-esteem.


By investing in solutions to missing teeth, people can start feeling confident again. It makes it much easier to enjoy socializing without worrying about how one's smile looks.


Whether it's a single missing tooth or many different gaps, restoring your smile can make you feel more comfortable in personal and professional settings.


Missing Teeth Solutions That You Can Count On

There are several effective solutions for replacing missing teeth, depending on how many are gone and your individual oral health needs. Are you wondering what might be right for you?


Dental Implants

Dental implants are one of the most advanced and popular solutions for replacing missing teeth. An implant is a titanium post that is placed into the jawbone through surgery. It acts as a replacement for the tooth's root. From there, the surgeon will attach a dental crown to the post.


Implants are respected as a permanent solution that looks and works just like real teeth. They're highly effective at preventing bone loss and preserving the structure of your jawbone.


Dental Bridges

A dental bridge features at least one artificial tooth. Such teeth look great and are anchored in place by crowns. Bridges can restore your smile and bite function, although they don't prevent bone loss. Instead, they're a good option when many adjacent teeth are missing, and implants aren't possible.


Dentures

Full or partial dentures are a tried and true solution for taking care of multiple missing teeth. It's an affordable and non-invasive solution for restoring your smile.


While modern dentures are more comfortable and natural-looking than in the past, they may need adjustment over time as the jawbone shape continues to change.


Replacing Teeth Enhances Both Your Smile and Well-Being

Replacing teeth is an investment in both your oral health and your aesthetic appearance.

Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery can provide you with dental implants and other exceptional solutions. Our dental team has garnered over a decade of real-world experience. You can also depend on our prestigious certifications and memberships, which include the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and the National Board of Dental Anesthesiology.


Now is the perfect time to schedule a consultation with the Tersa team.

Dental Implants in Lutz: A Local Guide to Restoring Your Smile

By Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • May 16, 2025
Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can also impact your ability to chew, speak (Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research), and feel confident in daily life. Fortunately, for residents of Lutz, Florida, dental implants offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution to restore your smile and oral health. Whether you have recently lost a tooth or have worn dentures for years, understanding your smile restoration options can make a life-changing difference. In this local guide , we will cover everything you need to know about dental implants in Lutz - from how they work to what to expect during treatment, plus how to choose the right local provider for your needs. What Are Dental Implants? A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone where a tooth is missing . This implant replaces the tooth's root and provides a strong foundation for a crown, bridge, or denture. Over time, the implant fuses with the jawbone through osseointegration, which gives the restoration exceptional stability , unlike traditional dentures or bridges that rest on the gums. Dental Implants Benefits Dental implants are widely considered the gold standard in tooth replacement. This is true for several reasons. 1. Natural Look and Feel Implants closely mimic the function and appearance of real teeth. You can chew, speak, and smile without worrying about slippage or discomfort. 2. Long-Lasting Solution Dental implants can last 15 years or more, often a lifetime, with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution over time. 3. Preserve Jawbone Health When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone can deteriorate over time. Implants stimulate the jawbone like a natural tooth root, helping maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss. 4. Improved Comfort and Confidence Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place, so they feel secure. This eliminates embarrassing moments during meals or conversations. Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants? Most adults in Lutz who are in good general and oral health may be candidates for dental implants . Key requirements include: Healthy gums Sufficient jawbone density No active periodontal disease Non-smoker or willing to quit Even if you have been missing teeth for a long time, modern bone grafting techniques can often prepare your jaw for implants. A consultation with a local implant dentist in Lutz will include X-rays and possibly a CT scan to determine your eligibility. The Dental Implant Process: What to Expect Dental implant treatment typically occurs in several stages over a few months. Here is a Lutz, FL, dental guide : 1. Consultation and Planning You will meet with a dentist or oral surgeon for a complete evaluation . This may include digital imaging, health history, and discussing your goals. 2. Implant Placement The implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone. This procedure is often performed under local anesthesia; most patients experience only mild discomfort afterward. 3. Healing Period (Osseointegration) Over the next 3-6 months in Tampa, Florida , the implant fuses with your jawbone, creating a strong foundation. 4. Abutment Placement After healing, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the implant. This will hold the final crown or restoration. 5. Custom Crown or Restoration A dental lab will create a custom crown that matches the color and shape of your natural teeth. Once placed, your new tooth will look and function like the real thing. Types of Dental Implants Depending on your missing teeth, your dentist may recommend one of several implant options . Here they are: Single Tooth Implants This procedure is ideal if you are missing just one tooth. A single crown is placed on an implant post for a seamless restoration. Implant-Supported Bridges It is used when multiple teeth in a row are missing. Implants support the bridge rather than relying on adjacent natural teeth. Implant-Supported Dentures This is a great option for those who have lost all teeth in the upper or lower jaw . These dentures snap onto a few strategically placed implants for maximum stability. How Much Do Dental Implants Cost in Lutz? The cost of dental implants in Lutz can vary depending on: Number of implants needed Type of restoration (crown, bridge, denture) Need for bone grafting or sinus lift The experience and specialization of the dental provider An average dental implant (including the crown) can cost between $3,000 and $5,000. While this may seem like a significant investment, many Lutz dental practices offer: Payment plans Dental Financing Insurance coordination It is important to consider the long-term value— implants are more durable and require fewer replacements than bridges or dentures. Finding a Dental Implant Specialist in Lutz When selecting a dentist for smile restoration , look for the following: Specialized training in implantology or oral surgery Modern technology, such as 3D imaging or digital impressions Proven results, including before-and-after photos or patient testimonials Transparent pricing and treatment plans Compassionate care and good communication Consider starting with a consultation at a local practice to learn more about your options and see if you feel comfortable with the team. How to Care for Your Dental Implants Once your implants are in place, maintaining them is straightforward: Brush twice daily and floss around the implant crown or denture. Visit your dentist for regular checkups and professional cleanings. Avoid smoking, which can compromise healing and implant success. Wear a nightguard if you grind your teeth . With proper care, your implants can last for decades, giving you a confident smile and functional bite for years to come. A Smile Restoration to Last the Ages Dental implants have transformed how we approach tooth replacement, offering Lutz residents a permanent, natural-looking smile restoration solution to boost function and confidence. At TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery , Dr. Andrés E. Guerra-Andrade is uniquely qualified to give you the best dental treatment possible.  We use the latest technological advancements and have experience with the most challenging cases . We will treat your condition with the minimum of pain and the fewest possible appointments. Do not wait to get dental implants to boost your smile. We are eager to help you discover all your oral health options.
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How to Prepare for Your Dental Implant Surgery

By Tersa Oral and Facial Surgery • March 27, 2025
MedicalNewsToday.com reports that scientists have found a connection between oral and cognitive health . They believe that bacteria in the mouth, especially those that cause gum disease, may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. All those findings further underscore the importance of maintaining optimal oral hygiene. It can keep your teeth and gums healthy and help maintain long-term brain health. Undergoing dental implant oral surgery is one of the best ways to help keep your oral health in check. Not only does it replace missing teeth, but it helps preserve your gums, jawbone, and remaining pearly whites. To that end, our caring team at TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery in Lutz, FL, put together this dental implant procedure and oral surgery guide. Read on for tips on preparing for and recovering from the treatment. Confirm Eligibility for Dental Implant Oral Surgery The first step in preparing for dental implant oral surgery is scheduling a consultation with a highly experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon. They specialize in surgical procedures of the: Mouth Jaws Face Neck Because of their more extensive training and experience, your best option for a doctor for dental implants is an oral and maxillofacial surgeon . During your consultation with one, you will undergo a comprehensive check-up to confirm if you are a good candidate for implant surgery. You will also learn whether there are "prerequisites" to help you enjoy the benefits of dental implants and facilitate smoother oral surgery recovery. Here is what you can expect during the consultation to determine if you can get dental implants . Density and Health of Your Jawbone Your oral surgeon will take X-rays and CT scans during the initial consultation. They will use these diagnostic tools to assess the density and health of your jawbone. It can help them confirm whether your jawbone will give your future, high-quality dental implants a solid, stable base. If there is not enough healthy jawbone, do not worry! Your surgeon can perform a bone graft. Doing so can boost the success rate of your dental implant surgery. Bone grafts use high-quality artificial or natural bone materials. They help fill in gaps and strengthen the jawbone to support implants . Your Oral Health’s Current State According to the U.S. CDC, the top three oral health problems that most affect people's overall health and quality of life are: Gum disease Dental cavities Tooth loss The first two are the leading causes of the third. All three can contribute to even more tooth loss! Moreover, gum disease and tooth decay can interfere with the placement and material of dental implants . For instance, cavities can result in gum infections, and infected gums may not heal properly . For these reasons, your surgeon must first treat existing problems as a crucial step to preparing you for oral surgery. Discussion of the Treatment Plan Your oral surgeon will discuss your implant eligibility and other tooth replacement options . They will explain all pertinent details, including: Advantage and disadvantages Treatment longevity Recovery timeline Dental implant cost vs. those of other options Payment and financing options Your surgeon will also explain all the prerequisites of a partial or complete mouth reconstruction plan . For example, they will inform you if you need treatment for tooth decay or gum disease before the surgery. Your doctor will also explain how many implants you need. They may tell you whether you need just a single implant or are better off with All-On-4 implants . Avoid Alcohol Before and After Surgery Alcohol is okay from time to time, but please refrain from drinking before and immediately after your dental implant oral surgery . It can impair your body's ability to heal and cause unwanted complications . Besides, as the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism points out, alcohol contributes to 200+ health conditions and diseases . So cutting back on its intake can do a lot of good for one's health. Get Good Quality Sleep Getting between 7 and 9 hours of restful, quality sleep is vital to good health. However, it is even more critical if you are undergoing All-On-4 dental implant surgery. Getting enough quality sleep can help you get through the surgery. Being well-rested can also help you feel more relaxed and calm and may even aid in a faster, better recovery . On the other hand, researchers of a study published on Thieme say that poor sleep may increase pain sensitivity . Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions to a T Your highly experienced and compassionate oral surgeon will provide a detailed plan on what you must do before, during, and after the surgery. For instance, they may require you to fast (not eat or drink anything eight hours before the procedure) if you are getting IV sedation . Following this can help ensure the sedative works correctly and that you will feel comfortable as your surgeon works on giving you your teeth for life . Your surgeon will also require you to have someone accompany you during the procedure. It is for your safety, as anesthesia can make you feel woozy or dizzy. Having a responsible driver bring you to and from the surgical facility can help you (and other road users) stay safe after your tooth replacement surgery. You will also receive a list of recommended foods and drinks to have and avoid immediately and days after the procedure. Soft foods, nourishing soups, and Jell-O are must-haves . On the other hand, you must avoid foods that are: Spicy Hard Crispy Require too much chewing Follow all those instructions to recover faster and enjoy your new high-quality implants from your oral and maxillofacial specialist in Lutz, FL. Prepare for a Successful Dental Implant Oral Surgery The success of your dental implant oral surgery depends not only on your oral and maxillofacial surgeon's skills and expertise. You must also prepare yourself by avoiding alcohol, getting enough sleep, and following your doctor's instructions to a T. If you are ready to enjoy a dazzling smile and full mouth functionality with high-quality implants, Dr. Andrés E. Guerra-Andrade and the team at TERSA Oral and Facial Surgery in Lutz, FL, are happy to help! Dr. Guerra-Andrade will use the expertise, knowledge, and skills he has honed for over a decade as an oral surgeon to help you achieve your oral health goals .  Learn more about the treatments and services we provide to the Tampa Bay community by calling us today!