Dental Implants
Teeth all work together as a unit to aid in chewing, speaking and smiling. The loss of one or more teeth can make these everyday functions difficult and even change the appearance of facial features. Missing teeth can cause the remaining teeth to shift and move, causing the bite to change. When the bite changes, the teeth may be under more stress and eventually crack, loosen or lead to TMJ discomfort.
Fortunately, there are options for replacing missing teeth. Dental implants are the most permanent and esthetic option for patients looking to replace teeth that have been lost due to decay, infection, periodontal disease or trauma.
Implants can be used to support many prostheses:
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Non-removable (fixed)—an implant may be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth in the same area or all missing teeth. For patients that are missing several teeth in the same area or all of their teeth, implants may be used to anchor bridges or non-removable dentures.
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Removable—implants may be used to support removable dentures. By using several implants to support a removable denture, the patient will have more stability to the denture, thus allowing them to chew, speak and function without the denture moving or slipping.
How are dental implants placed?
The dentist will first place the implant body, which acts like the root of the natural tooth. It is placed below the gums and allowed to heal for several months. Once the implant has healed, the visible portion of the implant can be placed. The dentist will place a post on the implant, called the abutment, and a crown or bridge will be placed on the abutment(s). On occasion, the crown or bridge will be directly attached to the implant without the use of abutments. A denture may be made at this time as well. There are also times when an existing denture may be fitted to new implants. Your dentist will be able to evaluate your existing denture to determine if it is usable with implants or if you may benefit more from a new prosthesis.
Who is a candidate for dental implants?
Most patients with good dental and overall health are candidates to have implants. Patients must also have enough bone to support an implant. Patients who are lacking bone may have the bone built up by their dentist or surgeon. Your dentist will evaluate your mouth and teeth to determine if you are able to have implants.
