Dental implants are the permanent solution to replace missing teeth. Whether you’re missing one tooth or an entire arch of teeth, you may be a good candidate for this advanced dental restoration from the dentists at Red Bank Dentistry in Red Bank, NJ.
Dental Implants: The Alternative to Dentures
People who are missing large numbers of teeth may avoid going to see their dentist because they believe the only way to fix their smile is with dentures. But there are other ways to replace missing teeth that do not involve the instability of dentures. Many patients have discovered that dental implants can work for them and save them from the impermanence of dentures and their other drawbacks.
Here are some fast facts about dental implants that set them apart from dentures:
- Replace both tooth root and crown
- Do not require adhesives
- Do not cover the roof of the mouth
- Look just like natural teeth
- Permanent solution
Modern dentures have come a long way from decades ago, and they are more comfortable and user-friendly than ever. But if you are determined to have a more solid solution for missing teeth, dental implants are the way to go. They can even be designed to work together with dentures to get the best of both solutions – minus adhesives – for a strong, natural-looking dental restoration.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process is a surgical procedure that takes several visits to your Red Bank dentist to complete.
- Prep: X-rays and impressions must be taken to evaluate bone and gum tissue and determine spacing needs. It is critical that your bone density be robust enough to accept a dental implant. Some patients may need to undergo a bone graft procedure to qualify for dental implants.
- Surgery: The surgical area is numbed and other sedation options are administered if necessary. The implant is surgically placed into the bone in one spot for the replacement of just one tooth or in several spots for the replacement of multiple teeth. Sometimes, the posts that will hold your artificial teeth can be placed at the time of surgery.
- Healing: It is critical for your mouth to heal properly so the implant can integrate into the jawbone and hold permanently in place. This process can take up to six months and you will visit your Red Bank dentist to check on your progress.
- New teeth: Once healing is complete, your new artificial teeth will be fitted to the dental implant post. This step may require several fittings and a few months to complete. Being patient is worth it though. Ultimately, you will have a new smile that is permanent, complete, and looks natural.
The Importance of Replacing Missing Teeth
Dental implants are the secure way to fill holes in your smile, but there are plenty of benefits to this procedure beyond the obvious:
- Restore confidence: If you have been self-conscious about your missing teeth, this repair will complete your smile and boost your self-esteem.
- Save your oral health: It’s critical to complete your smile so nearby teeth do not float out of position and damage tissue.
- Enhance facial tissues: Your jawbone is stimulated and helps maintain the shape of your face so it does not compress or look hollow.
- Boost functionality: You will speak, chew, and digest food better when you have all your teeth.
With good hygiene, your dental implants can last for a lifetime. Find out whether you’re a good candidate for this advanced dental restoration from Dr. Carole Sherrod Jewell at Red Bank Dentistry in Red Bank, New Jersey.
