Dental Implants
Dental implants are for tooth replacement. If teeth are missing or unable to be saved, implant replacement may be the best treatment option. Missing teeth can adversely impact a person’s function and overall appearance. These tooth replacements can be virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth and can dramatically enhance the ease, ability and enjoyment of eating. Implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are lost. Dental implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth (partially edentulous patients), or all missing teeth (completely edentulous patients).
Conventional tooth replacement involves reduction of tooth structure of the adjacent teeth to support a fixed bridge. With implant therapy, healthy teeth do not need to be reduced or comprised. Patients missing several or all of their teeth can avoid a removable partial or complete denture. Research has demonstrated the long-term value of implant therapy.
Dental implants permanently replace the roots of missing teeth and are used to anchor custom made crowns, bridges and dentures securely in the mouth. Implants are made of titanium and are placed into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth or teeth. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implants which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for crown restorations.
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Natural appearance
- Eliminates removable appliances
- Dependable and secure
- Significant chewing improvement
- Permanent, long-term solution
