Adult tooth loss is a fairly common problem across the US, but this concern should not be left untreated. Gaps in your smile can cause difficulty eating, speaking, and can cause changes in your appearance. Restorative methods like bridges and dentures can help replace your missing teeth, but they may not be able to fully support your jawbone and facial structure. Your team at Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, offers dental implants which can mimic both the root and crown of your missing teeth, which may offer better long-term oral health support. In today’s blog, we’re here to talk about this secure tooth replacement option.
Read more: The Benefits Of Dental ImplantsHow Implants Replace The Entire Missing Tooth
Unlike other restorative options, dental implants replace the entire lost structure. This prosthetic consists of a post, abutment, and crown which work together to mimic your missing tooth. A titanium post is inserted into your jawbone and will fuse together in a natural process. The post acts as the new root, which helps create a stable base for the rest of the prosthetic and helps further support your jawbone and facial structure. The abutment and crown will be connected after you have healed from the post insertion, which may take a few months. Other restorative options mimic the visible part of your missing teeth, which can help improve your appearance and chewing ability but do not provide long-term support.
A Way To Secure Your Bridge
Patients who qualify may be able to have an implant-retained dental bridge. Instead of the adjacent teeth holding your bridge in place, it will be secured to the titanium posts and abutment piece. This offers more long-term structure and can improve both the function and appearance of your smile. Your dentist will first need to thoroughly examine your oral cavity and review your health history to ensure this is a good option for your needs. If your jawbone cannot support the posts, or you have a more progressive form of tooth loss, partial dentures may be recommended instead.
Long Term Benefits Of This Restoration
Before receiving your restoration, you will need a consultation with your dentist to ensure you are a good fit for this. Patients must have a strong jawbone and be in good oral health. In some cases, you may be able to have bone grafting done to prepare for your implant. Replacing your missing tooth with a dental implant means you will have improved functions of your oral cavity and your smile will be complete. You won’t have to worry about removing your prosthetic to clean, and you can continue taking care of your smile as you usually would with a consistent oral hygiene routine and regular checkups.
Talk To Our Team To Learn More
Do you have questions about this restorative option? Call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, today at (515) 965-0230.