Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that provide a permanent base for fixed, replacement teeth. Compared to dentures, bridges and crowns, dental implants are a popular and effective long-term solution for people who suffer from missing teeth, failing teeth or chronic dental problems. Because they fit, feel and function like natural teeth, dental implants are quickly becoming the new standard in tooth replacement.
What makes dental implants feel completely comfortable and secure? All About Smile Dental Group doctors use a medical-grade titanium implant fixture that, over time, actually fuses to the living bone cells of the jaw. This union forms a strong and durable anchor for your new teeth, meaning there’s no slippage or other movement (which can sometimes happen with dentures). There are also no problems eating with dental implants, no need to repair them regularly and no more worrying about smiling freely and openly.
Dental implants typically have three parts:
1) The implant: A screw that serves as a root for your new teeth. This is what permanently attaches to your jaw.
2) The abutment: A permanent, but removable by your doctor, connector that supports and holds a tooth or set of teeth.
3) The crown (or prosthetic tooth): This is the part of the tooth that you can see. It’s usually made of zirconium or porcelain for durability and good looks.
You can use dental implants to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth or a full upper and/or lower set of teeth. If you need to restore a full arch, you may be a perfect candidate for the all-on-four treatment. Our surgeons will place four implants and then attach a full arch of teeth, giving the procedure its name (all teeth, only four implants).
Just as dental implants have emerged as the preferred choice for tooth replacement, our approach has become the preferred model for dental implant treatment. Our team of experts work together, with three offices for patient convenience, to build beautiful smiles in a way that works for our patients.
Patients who need to replace a full upper and/or lower set of teeth can now receive all on four implants. An oral surgeon will place 4 implants and then attach a full arch of teeth, giving the procedure its name.
Occasionally a patient is missing more than one tooth, but still has healthy gums and surrounding teeth, and a multiple implant is the best solution. Two fixtures are implanted and the crown is attached, leaving other natural teeth intact. The multiple implant is not for everyone, and even if a patient is only missing a few teeth, it may still be preferable to perform an all-on-four procedure.
If you have lost a single tooth due to an accident or from periodontal disease, that one tooth can be replaced using a dental implant. Your new tooth will look and function just like your other natural teeth.
If you struggle with dental issues and can’t seem to find a solution that makes you happy, dental implants could be the right choice for you. Beyond the aesthetic appeal, many people find that the health benefits are an important factor when considering implants.
For example, did you know implants can help prevent bone loss in the jaw? The natural erosion of bone begins as soon as a tooth is lost, and if nothing is done, this may result in the loss of other teeth and could cause a “sunken” look in facial features. Dental implants integrate with the bone, providing a stimulus that keeps the jawbone from deteriorating. This helps maintain a more youthful facial structure, boosts confidence—and leads to better oral health.
Dental implants could help improve overall health, too. With strong, full functioning teeth, patients can expand their diets and eat healthier foods again, like nuts and fruits.
You also should take into account the longevity of implants. When properly cared for, dental implants can last a lifetime, making them one of the best investments for long-term tooth replacement.
Of course, you can’t forget about some of the more common advantages of dental implants. Unlike dentures, they never slip or move—and you don’t have to use special cleaners and adhesives. Unlike fixed bridgework, dental implants don’t require adjacent healthy teeth to be filed down. And, there’s this fact to consider: studies have reported that the long-term success rate of implants is over 95%.
To better understand what makes dental implants the definitive solution for missing teeth, please feel free to visit us for a free consultation. Schedule yours today. You’ll be amazed at what our dental technology and expert care can do for you.
What can Dental Implants do for my smile?
If you are missing a tooth, there are many reasons to replace it:
- Missing teeth may affect the way you speak and chew.
- If a missing tooth is not replaced, the teeth around it can move. This can affect your bite and place more stress on your teeth and jaw joints.
- Teeth that have tipped or drifted are also harder to clean. This puts them at a higher risk for tooth decay and gum disease.
- Bone loss can occur around the missing tooth.
- You may not like the way a missing tooth affects your looks.
Our All About Smile Dental Group team consider every patient a member of our family. We look forward to the opportunity to speak with you, listen to your concerns, and find a simple and effective solution. If you are interested in improving your oral health.