Dental Implants: A Solution for Missing Teeth

One of the best solutions for replacing missing teeth is dental implants. General dentists recommend them to patients who have missing teeth or teeth that are severely decayed. Dental implants offer many benefits that other tooth replacement options do not, which is why they are worth considering. 

Dental implants for tooth replacement

Want to know more about dental implants and how they act as a great solution for missing teeth? Keep reading to find out!

Dental implants

Dental implants are extremely small, screw-shaped posts that are typically made of titanium, which is a biodegradable material that the body rarely rejects. Recently, zirconia dental implants have surfaced as another material option, but general dentists typically recommend titanium-based ones because they have a 97% success rate. Dental implants replace a tooth's roots, which are important for supporting the artificial tooth. 

A solution for missing teeth

Modern-day dentistry has allowed for the evolution of multiple options for tooth replacement. Outlined below are a few of the reasons that dental implants are the best solution for missing teeth. 

• Dental implants are biodegradable, which means they are safe
• Stimulation of the jawbone eliminates the worry that the jawbone will deteriorate
• Dental implants are long-lasting when proper oral hygiene is maintained
• Strength and durability come with dental implants

While dental implants are the best option for tooth replacement, there are scenarios in which they may not be best for certain patients. For example, patients who have little to no bone in their jaw may not be eligible for dental implants right away. Instead, the general dentist may require the patient to undergo a bone graft first to ensure that the jaw is strong enough to support the dental implants.

Another scenario is that the patient may have an entire arch of teeth that needs to be replaced, and the dental implant may not be suitable. In this case, the general dentist may recommend implant-supported dentures, which is a hybrid option for tooth replacement that combines dental implants and dentures. 

The dental implants process

When dental implants are chosen as the solution for missing teeth, the patient should expect to undergo a lengthy process that involves multiple procedures. During the first procedure, an oral surgeon will place dental implants into the jaw. After placement, the patient has to undergo the process of osseointegration, which allows the implants to fuse with the bone. Once a few months have passed, a general dentist can attach an abutment and the artificial tooth. The artificial tooth may be a dental crown, bridge or partial dentures. Once the artificial teeth have been placed, the dental implant process is complete. 

Get started today!

Dental implants are a great choice for replacing missing teeth. Working with a general dentist is a good place to start when looking into different tooth replacement options. Reach out today to get started or to learn more!

Request an appointment here: https://cosmeticdentistsilverspring.com or call Lee Dentistry at (301) 605-1123 for an appointment in our Silver Spring office.

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