Dental implants are a great way to replace one or more missing teeth! They can even be used to support a full denture on one or both arches. A dental implant is a titanium, screw-like post that is surgically placed directly into your jawbone to support a fake tooth or teeth. If the patient is missing two teeth in one area of their mouth, one implant can be used to support two implant crowns! In the case of an implant supported denture, multiple implants may be used. Two implants can support a partial denture and four to eight implants can be used to support a full denture, depending on your individual case.
Implants act as an artificial tooth root and work to provide a stable foundation for your dental restoration and support bone health. Without tooth roots to stimulate bone regeneration, the jaw bone begins to deteriorate over time which can cause surrounding healthy teeth to become loose or even fall out. Eventually, noticeable changes to the facial structure can occur. Replacing missing teeth is vital not only to the health of your mouth, but also to your overall health!
Options For Dental Implants
Depending on your bone structure and the number of teeth you need to have replaced, your doctor may use one implant to support multiple teeth! If you need to have an entire arch of teeth replaced, four implants are placed throughout the arch where the bone is strongest to support a denture. In some cases, up to eight implants may be required for one arch. A permanent denture is then secured onto the implants to provide a stable dental restoration.
There are a number of factors that should be considered when determining if dental implants are right for you. When you discuss your options with your dentist, they will take into consideration your overall health, your bone mass, and gum health.
Patients with underlying health issues may not be able to heal properly after implant surgery and may not be a good candidate for dental implants. Patients with gum disease will need to have treatment for their gum tissue before dental implants can be considered. Additionally, bone structure is vital to the success of dental implants and proper osseointegration, fusion of the implant to the bone.
Dental implants are a wonderful option for patients who need to have one or more teeth replaced. If you are considering dental implants, speak with your dentist to review all of your options and understand the process of implant placement and restoration.
Dental implants require an extensive amount of healing time before they can be restored with a fake tooth or denture so it is important that you understand what is involved before you begin treatment. If your dentist thinks you might be a good candidate for dental implants, they will refer you to either a periodontist or an oral surgeon for evaluation. Your dentist and implant specialist will work together to make sure your treatment is best for you.