Dr Enmark

916 922 2151

931 Howe Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95825

Why it’s important to replace your missing tooth

missing tooth

Is it important to replace your missing tooth? Quite simply, it is extremely important to replace a missing tooth or teeth to avoid a domino effect of devastating issues.

When something does go wrong with a tooth, we aim to do all that is possible to restore the tooth to its original function.  Removing a tooth is the last option because we know that removal may lead to severe and costly dental and cosmetic problems if the tooth is not replaced.

With advanced state-of-the-art dental treatments and prevention options available here at At Michelle Enmark, DDS in Sacramento, we can help restore your missing teeth to regain your bright smile, your confidence and to help improve your overall health.

Let’s clarify the domino effect…

Your lost teeth should be replaced as soon as possible to support the health and integrity of not just your smile but your overall health.  Tooth loss is actually very serious and if left untreated can wreak havoc within the mouth and body. Longitudinal studies (research conducted over the years) have found a positive correlation between good oral hygiene and the condition of your overall health. When we refer to the ‘domino effect’ we mean the effect that one single tooth can have on your entire body. Your missing tooth, can first cause damage to your neighbouring teeth and then soon after your entire oral environment. When your mouth is suffering this can affect your ability to eat and speak, which can have detrimental effects on your bodily health and your self-esteem.

When a tooth is lost bacteria starts to develop within the mouth that can make the gums prone to infection. Our immune system attempts to fight against bacteria; however, if defeated, the infection and the gums become inflamed. Without dental treatment, over time the inflammation and chemicals it releases eat away at the gums and bone structure that hold teeth in place. This spread of bacteria results in a higher risk of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, and could cause even further tooth decay and tooth loss.

Overall health issues: Diabetes & heart disease

The working relationship between diabetes and periodontitis may be the strongest of all the connections between the mouth and body.  Diabetes and periodontitis have a two-way relationship. High blood sugar provides ideal conditions for infection to grow, including gum infections. People with diabetes have trouble processing sugar because of a lack of natural insulin (the hormone that converts sugar into energy).

Though the reasons are not fully understood, there is a positive relationship between gum disease and heart disease. Up to 91% of patients with heart disease have periodontitis, compared to 66% of people without heart disease.

Among other causes, smoking, unhealthy diet and excess weight may all be associated risk factors of both conditions.

At Michelle Enmark, DDS, we offer a wide range of restorative dental treatments such as dental implants or bridges in order to restore your smile. Our elite dental team will be able to assess your condition and recommend which treatment is best for you.

Options for replacement of missing teeth

Implants are a great way to replace one or more missing teeth. They may also be great to support ill-fitting dentures. A dental implant is an artificial root that is surgically placed into the jaw bone to replace a missing tooth. An artificial tooth is placed on the implant, giving the appearance and feel of a natural tooth. If you would like a dental solution to missing teeth that is designed for longevity and functionality, dental implants may be what you are looking for.

Bridges – A bridge is a dental restoration that is made up of several dental crowns fused together to literally ‘bridge’ the gap left by missing teeth. Bridges can be used on their own (supported by neighbouring teeth,) or attached to implants. By inserting dental implants into the main areas of tooth loss, our doctors are able to utilise his skills to accurately attach the bridgework to dental implants once the implants have fused with the jawbone.

Implant supported dentures: Many patients who have lost their natural smiles and utilise full lower dentures often have trouble with eating and talking. With no remaining teeth left to stabilise the denture, they become loose and cause much discomfort. At Michelle Enmark, DDS in Sacramento we can solve this problem by using strong, durable and stable dental implants in order to produce a solid foundation for the dentures to attach to, resulting in a functional and long-lasting smile.

To find out more about dental implants or to book an appointment please don’t hesitate to call 916 922 2027 or contact us online

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