What are dental implants?
Dental implants are the new standard of care in the replacement of missing teeth.
In the case of single tooth replacement, the practitioner inserts a dental post (dental implant) into the jawbone to replace your missing tooth root. This post becomes solidly fixed into your jaw (like a natural tooth root). Your general dentist then places a crown onto this artificial tooth root that looks, feels, and functions like your natural teeth. Dental implants can now be used to anchor partial and full dentures, in the case of several missing teeth. This prevents the slipping, irritation, and pain associated with “floating” partials and dentures. It also prevents the tedious removal of dentures for overnight soaking and cleaning. Dental implants also eliminate the need for dental adhesives. This allows you to enjoy eating the foods you previously avoided . With dental implants, your partials or dentures are firmly anchored to the jawbone, causing them to feel much more like natural teeth.
Natural tooth roots and dental implant posts are fixed firmly in your jawbone. When you chew, these tooth roots and posts stimulate the jawbone and prevent it from shrinking. You may have seen a person who looked prematurely old because their jawbone had shrunk after wearing floating dentures. Dental implants help preserve your jawbone and appearance.
Quite simply, dental implants are the most natural replacement for missing teeth.
What are some of the advantages
of dental implants?
- More attractive appearance
- Speech improvement
- Greater comfort
- Greater ability to chew food comfortably
What are the advantages
of fixed restorations?
Implants look and feel like natural teeth. Their stability eliminates problems associated
with removable appliances, such as dentures and partials. These problems include:
- Slipping, irritation and pain caused by dentures
- Tedious removal for overnight soaking and cleaning
- Inability to eat certain foods
- Embarrasment eating or being seen without teeth
How long will dental implants last?
Dental implants become fixed to the jawbone. Though the life span of a dental implant will vary with each patient, many have lasted for over 30 years. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, dental implants should last a lifetime. In contrast, the average life span of a traditional fixed bridge is between 10-15 years.
Are dental implants
expensive?
Dental implants cost more than conventional dentures, but they last longer and cause far less discomfort.
Am I a candidate for
implants?
Implants begin with an evaluation by your general dentist who will decide
if you are good candidate for the procedure. If they feel implants
might be possible, they will send you to a periodontist for a placement evaluation.
Where can I find more information?
The following sites will provide you with more information on dental implants:
Don't know what zip code or area code to use?
Find your periodontist with our state directory below. |
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