Why a missing tooth is more than a gap:
When you lose a tooth, the bone underneath begins to resorb — essentially, your body stops maintaining bone in an area where there's no longer a tooth root signaling it to stay. This process begins within the first few months and continues over time, which is why people who've had teeth missing for years often notice changes in the shape of their jaw or the fit of their face.
Adjacent teeth also shift into the space, which can affect your bite, make cleaning harder, and — you guessed it — increase the risk of losing more teeth down the line.
Replacing a missing tooth isn't vanity. It's longevity. Missing 3 teeth or more before you turn 65yrs of age can also affect your health!
What Is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that's placed into the jawbone, where it integrates with the bone over a period of months in a process called osseointegration. Once that integration is complete, a crown is attached on top — and the result looks, feels, and functions essentially like a natural tooth.
Because the implant is anchored in the bone (just like a natural root), it stimulates the bone and prevents resorption. That's the key distinction between an implant and other replacement options like a bridge or a partial denture: it addresses the structural problem, not just the visible gap.
Who's a good candidate?
Most adults with good general health and sufficient bone density are candidates for implants. Certain conditions — uncontrolled diabetes, active periodontal disease, heavy smoking — can affect healing and integration, so those factors need to be addressed first.
Bone volume is also a consideration. Patients who've had a tooth missing for a long time may have experienced enough bone loss that a bone graft is needed before an implant can be placed. This adds time to the process but is generally very manageable.
The best way to know if you're a candidate is a proper evaluation — including imaging — to assess the bone and surrounding structures.
What implants can and can't do
Implants are excellent at: replacing a single missing tooth, anchoring a bridge to replace multiple adjacent teeth, stabilizing dentures, and preserving bone.
What they can't do: replace teeth instantly (the process takes months), work well in mouths with active infection or significant uncontrolled disease, or substitute for the underlying bone if it isn't there.
They also require the same maintenance as natural teeth. An implant can't get a cavity, but the gum tissue around it can still become inflamed or infected! Brushing, flossing, and regular cleanings are still essential.
Starting the conversation
If you have a missing tooth — or a tooth that's failing and likely to need extraction — implants are worth discussing sooner rather than later. The longer the bone sits without stimulation, the more complex the eventual solution becomes.
We're happy to walk you through what the process looks like and whether it's right for you. No pressure, no complicated sales pitch. Just a clear look at your options.
And in the meantime — enjoy the candy. Just brush after. 🎃
See you soon,
— Dr. Chan 🦷
