7 Facts About Dental Implants

We get a lot of calls from patients interested in learning more about the differences between dental implants and a dental bridge. When it comes to replacing missing teeth in a secure way, these are the two most common solutions. Both of these options remain securely in the mouth, as opposed to dentures that the patient needs to remove on a regular basis.

When comparing options, we encourage patients to schedule an appointment with our office. This allows us to conduct a thorough examination and make a recommendation that will be most beneficial to the patient's oral health. In the meantime, here is some information that can help with the decision-making process.

Dental bridge

Here are some basic facts about a dental bridge:

• A dental bridge does not work for replacing an entire mouth of teeth
• Other teeth must serve as anchors for the bridge
• A dental bridge can look natural because the replacement teeth secure to a gum-like base
• A dental bridge is a nonsurgical, yet invasive, procedure

A dental bridge can be highly effective for replacing missing teeth since we secure the teeth in place using anchor teeth. However, this process can compromise other teeth in the mouth. In order for the other teeth to serve as anchors, we will need to place a dental crown around them after removing some enamel. Thus, there will be permanent changes to the teeth as a result of supporting the bridge.

Dental implants

Here are some basic facts about dental implants:

• The actual implant is a small titanium post
• We insert the implant under the gums and secure it to the jaw bone
• The visible portion of the tooth is a dental crown that a dental lab customizes to the patient’s other teeth
• Dental implants are the only solution that replaces the missing root and tooth.
• Dental implants do not compromise other teeth
• Implants are the most long-lasting and natural-looking solution
• Implants look so much like natural teeth, it is difficult to tell the difference between them

When possible, we recommend that patients replace their teeth using implants. Since this is the most durable and natural-looking solution, this procedure will produce the best possible results when replacing missing teeth. Also, the implant stimulates the jaw bone that will help to slow the process of resorption.

Placing the dental implants will help to strengthen the jaw and promote long-term oral health. Since this is a surgical procedure, some people prefer an alternative treatment. However, we like to point out that because it is surgical in nature, patients are put to sleep before we begin. This means that none of our patients experience any discomfort during the actual procedure.

Not everyone qualifies

There must be sufficient jaw bone density to qualify for implants. Anyone who does not have enough density may need a grafting procedure before getting started. This makes it important to schedule an examination and consultation to learn about options.

We encourage you to call today to learn more about implants and tooth replacement solutions.