Tooth loss for any reason is never fun. Many patients suffer the loss of one or more teeth at some point in their lives. This can be an uncomfortable and unsettling experience. Andersen Dental Center has a high-tech solution to this age-old problem. That is: dental implants.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant is a post placed inside your gum and attached to the jawbone. Once the implant is in place, it is covered by a prosthetic tooth which acts exactly like a real tooth – with the exception that you’ll never get a cavity in that tooth again.
This sounds like a simple procedure, and it is. Plus, getting a dental implant can have enormous dental benefits.
Because an implant is attached to your jawbone, your body accepts it as part of the structure of your mouth. This means that the debilitating bone loss that can occur over time when you have lost a tooth does not happen. In fact, dental implants can help make your jawbone stronger over time. Implant supported dentures bring the same benefit to the table.
Additionally, the cap attached to the implant acts as a stand-alone tooth and is precisely fitted to your mouth. This means that there is no need to shave down existing, healthy teeth to fit your implant.
Can I Get Dental Implants?
Dental implants and implant supported dentures are not available to everyone, though most patients qualify. You will need:
- Adequate bone support. Dental implants are supported by the jawbone, so there needs to be enough existing bone for implants to work properly.
- Healthy gums. Patients with periodontal disease risk implant failure.
- Overall good health. This is a surgical procedure, which means patients should be in good health to undergo the process.
There are other risk factors like teeth clenching and habits like smoking that can affect the procedure, so be sure to tell your dentist about all of your health concerns before getting dental implants.
What are My Other Tooth Loss options?
Because some patients are not candidates for dental implants or implant supported dentures, there are other solutions for tooth loss. Dentures can be used to replace missing teeth for patients. Also, dental bridges are a nonsurgical solution for a missing tooth.
Here at Andersen Dental Center, we provide patients with all of their options so they can make informed decisions about their dental needs. If you have suffered the loss of a tooth or teeth, be sure to contact us today. We will help you find the right solution for your dental needs.