Tooth loss is an extremely common dental concern faced by many adults today. Tooth loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including periodontal disease, severe decay, and injury. In years past, treatment options available to patients suffering from tooth loss were limited.
Typically, patients could either opt for a bridge or dentures to treat tooth loss. Today, however, there's another choice for patients seeking restorative treatment: dental implants.
What's a dental implant?
Millions of Americans currently have dental implants. In fact, there's a good chance that someone you know has an implant or two. So, what exactly is a dental implant? Simply put: an implant serves as an artificial tooth root.
This artificial root-- which is surgically implanted into either the upper or lower jaw-- provides a solid foundation for the attachment of replacement teeth. Once implanted into the jaw, the artificial root-- which is actually a titanium post-- fuses with the bone surrounding it.
This process is called osseointegration and it ensures that the post is held securely in place. Then, the replacement tooth is mounted to the implanted post for a natural looking and feeling smile.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Why are dental implants often deemed preferable over dentures as a tooth replacement option? Implants offer many benefits to the patient, including:
- Secure fit. Traditional dentures are notorious for their tendency to slip and shift in the mouth. Dentures and bridges attached to dental implants, however, are held securely in place, meaning patients don't have to worry about the potential embarrassment of having their replacement teeth shift around in their mouths as they're speaking.
- Durability. Dental implants are meant to serve as a long-term solution for tooth loss. Thus, they are designed with durability in mind. In fact, when implants are taken care of properly, they can last for decades.
- Easy care. Few patients are likely to describe life with removable dentures as convenient. After all, dentures have to be removed at night and require special cleaning and care. Additionally, certain foods-- particularly hard or sticky foods-- can be challenging to chew with removable dentures. Implants, on the other hand, do not require maintenance beyond what's required for natural teeth. This includes brushing two times a day, flossing every day, and regularly scheduled check-ups at the dentist's office.
- Improved speech. Dentures can often contribute to speaking difficulties-- particularly slurring of the words-- as they have a tendency to shift in the patient's mouth. With dental implants, patients can look forward to speaking clearly. This is because implants are made to not only look like the patient's natural teeth, but they are also designed to function just like the patient's natural teeth.
- Restored confidence. Patients who suffer from tooth loss often report feelings of embarrassment or low self-esteem related to their less than desirable smiles. With restorative treatment in the form of dental implants, however, patients can once again show their smiles to the world, giving them a much-needed boost in confidence.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Dental implants are often a good solution for patients suffering from tooth loss. Are they right for you? Some factors good candidates possess include:
- Non-smokers. Patients who do not smoke (or who are willing to quit smoking before the implant process begins) are preferable.
- Healthy gums. In order for the implant process to run as smoothly as possible, patients should have healthy gums, meaning that they should not currently be suffering from periodontal disease.
- Missing one or more teeth. Whether you're missing only a single tooth or a few teeth, implants might be a viable option for you.
- Good oral health habits. In addition to having healthy gums, the ideal candidates for implants are those who are mindful of their oral health. They know the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.
If you are considering dental implants, contact us to learn about X-Guide, the most advanced system available for dental implant placement. Combining this sophisticated technology with Dr. Linger's expertise, you are certain to leave our office with a smile you love.
