While missing teeth are certainly an unfortunate circumstance, this is actually the best time in history to have them. Why? Because now there are more options for tooth replacement than ever. In fact, dentistry has already come up with a prosthetic that is practically indistinguishable from nature: dental implants. This treatment literally rebuilds the teeth from the root up and has been shown to last for 30 years or more. Of course, this all sounds great, but can they actually help you? Fortunately, dental implants can be used in a number of different ways that allow them to replace any number of teeth, meaning now everyone with gaps in their smile can finally get rid of them…forever.
Single Tooth Implants
A dental implant itself is actually a small titanium post that is placed directly into the jawbone in order to mimic the root structure of a lost tooth. The post eventually bonds to the surrounding bone just like a natural root, and then it can be attached to a variety of prosthetics to replace the teeth.
In the case of a single missing tooth, an all-porcelain crown can be attached directly to the post using a metal connector called an abutment. The porcelain can be specially shaded to perfectly match a person’s natural tooth color, and because the implant has the same root-crown structure as those that surround it, it will blend in seamlessly with the rest of the smile. Better yet, thanks to the quality of the materials used, the new tooth will be just as strong as the real ones as well.
Multiple Tooth Implants
If you are missing a row of consecutive teeth, the implant-retained crowns we just mentioned can be used to anchor a restorative bridge as well. Two implant crowns are placed on either side of the gap in the smile, and these are bonded to prosthetic teeth to close it. Compared to regular bridges, implant-retained bridges have a much more secure hold and don’t have an unnatural-looking dark line located near the gums.
Implant-Retained Dentures
And, if a patient is missing multiple teeth throughout their mouth, or even an entire arch, implants can be used to support a new kind of denture as well. Implant-retained dentures resemble normal ones in appearance, but with one key difference: the denture itself is secured using multiple dental implants. After the implants have been placed into the jawbone, the denture simply snaps onto them using a metal bar or ball joints.
Compared to a regular, removable denture, implant-retained dentures have a much stronger fit, they keep their fit for longer, and they also provide a patient with a significantly stronger bite force (enabling them to eat a wider variety of foods).
Reclaim Your Smile
In short, if you have missing teeth, no matter how many, dental implants can easily turn your problem into a thing of the past. Over the last two decades, they have become the premier tooth replacement solution preferred by both dentists and patients alike, and thanks to modern-day techniques, they have a 98% success rate.
If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about your smile or limiting your diet because of missing teeth, dental implants may be exactly what you need to smile with true confidence again. To get them, simply contact an implant dentist in Downtown Crossing today.
About Devonshire Dental Associates
If you’re looking for a dentist in Downtown Crossing, then Devonshire Dental Associates is the place for you. With a team of five dentists on staff, including a board-certified periodontist and endodontist, they’re able to provide comprehensive, personalized care for each and every patient. And, unlike most other dental offices in the area, they are able to handle the entire dental implant procedure from start to finish. If you’re curious about all the ways they can help you replace your missing teeth, contact them today.