Replace Missing Teeth With Dental Implants

Dental implants are some of the best things to come from technological advances in the field of dentistry. Before the development of implants, people with missing teeth relied on dentures or bridges. 

Dental implants offer a comfortable and attractive option for those who have lost a tooth or several teeth. This permanent tooth replacement solution looks and feels like a natural tooth. If you have lost a tooth through injury or decay, you can get a dental implant. 

Replacing Missing Teeth

Tooth decay, gum disease, a genetic condition, and injury can all result in missing teeth. Having a missing tooth can cause low self-esteem. It can also affect the ability to eat and talk properly. Several treatments can be used to replace missing teeth. 

The treatment options include dental bridges, removable dentures, and dental implants. Dental implants are a good option for replacing a single tooth or several teeth in different parts of the mouth.

Benefits of Dental Implants

The fact that the implants look and feel like real teeth means that the patient will feel more self-confident. People feel more comfortable after the dental implant procedure and they do not have to feel insecure about their smile. 

Apart from the aesthetic benefits, dental implants are highly functional, making speaking and eating easier. The titanium post that holds the implant is secured into the jaw. This means that, unlike dentures, the implant does not come loose. Dental implants make it easy to maintain good oral health because they are not secured onto other teeth.

Disadvantages of Dental Implants  

The downside of this treatment option is that it is a surgical procedure. This means that the patient will need to be in good general health to get dental implants. Like with all surgery, good physical health is vital for the procedure and successful recovery. 

The healing process can take months, during which time the replacement tooth cannot be attached. The entire procedure can take a long time and it is also quite expensive compared to other replacement options. In many cases, the treatment is not covered by insurance.

Are Dental Implants Right for You?

The success of dental implants will depend on different factors but it is generally over 95 percent. The implant procedure involves inserting a metal frame or post into the gum and jaw bone. This means that there are people who may not be good candidates for dental implant surgery. 

If you suffer from diabetes, this procedure may not be right for you. Dental implants are not ideal for people who smoke. Your dentist will carry out a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for dental implants.  

Caring for Dental Implants

To ensure that dental implant treatment is successful, you must maintain good oral hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing are essential. It is also important to make regular visits to the dentist. With proper care, your implant can last for decades.

Apart from impacting speech and eating, missing a tooth or several teeth can cause other problems. Your bite and the shape of your face can be affected by missing teeth. You can end up with issues like tooth grinding and sensitivity. It is important to talk to your dentist about replacing any missing teeth. 

To know more about dental implants, visit Courthouse Art of Dentistry at our office in Arlington, Virginia. You can also call 703-260-9600 to schedule an appointment.